Circle of Vicente López y Portaña

Keith Merrill (1887-1959), and Katharine Ayer Merrill (1890-1981), Avalon, Prides Crossing, Massachusetts, and Washington, D.C. (probably acquired by the former during his diplomatic post as Consul in Madrid, 1922);

Thence by descent to their son, Dr. Keith Merrill Jr. (d. 2007), Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts;

Thence by descent to the present collectors. 

This portrait closely relates to Vicente López’s renowned depiction of Luis Veldrof (1758–1840) in the Museo del Prado, Madrid.¹ In the Prado version, Veldrof is shown holding a key in his right hand—a symbol of his status and position—whereas in the present portrait, he holds a folded letter addressed to him in Madrid. Veldrof served as chief chamberlain and concierge of the Royal Palace of Spain. Beginning his service to the Royal Household at a young age, he rose steadily through the ranks to attain the prestigious positions, including that of chamberlain. He shared a close relationship with Vicente López and was responsible for signing off on López’s selection of paintings for the collection of the Real Museo de Pinturas.

¹ Inv. no. P004407, oil on canvas, 100 by 80 cm.