Understanding Las Meninas by Velasquez

Who is the central figure in the painting Las Meninas?

• A maid of honor

• Velasquez himself

• The infanta Margaret Teresa

• The king of Spain

What is the significance of the mirror in Las Meninas?

• It is a decorative element

• It reflects the artist's studio

• It shows the reflection of the king and queen

• It reflects the entire gallery

Which historical figure is mentioned as having visited an artist's studio, similar to the king and queen visiting Velasquez?

• Napoleon Bonaparte

• King Henry VIII

• Julius Caesar

• Alexander the Great

What was Velasquez's ambition that is highlighted in the context of Las Meninas?

• To become the court jester

• To be recognized as a craftsman

• To achieve knighthood

• To paint the largest canvas

How does Velasquez use light in Las Meninas?

• To differentiate and illuminate figures

• To create a flat, two-dimensional effect

• To highlight the background

• To obscure the main subjects

What artistic era does Las Meninas belong to?

• Renaissance

• Baroque

• Impressionism

• Modernism

What technique does Velasquez use to make the viewer feel part of the painting?

• Bright colors

• Linear perspective

• Flat surfaces

• Abstract shapes

What is the significance of the red cross added to Velasquez's chest in the painting?

• It is a family crest

• It is the insignia of the Order of Santiago

• It represents his religious beliefs

• It symbolizes his role as a soldier

What does the presence of the monarchs in the artist's studio signify in Las Meninas?

• A mistake in the painting

• A casual visit by the royals

• The importance of the artist and art

• The artist's low status

Why was it significant for Velasquez to include the king and queen in his painting?

• To show his defiance

• To fill empty space

• To demonstrate his artistic skills

• To elevate the status of painting