Resplendence of Spanish Monarchy

The sumptuous tapestries and handsome armor commissioned or acquired by the 16th-century monarchs Charles V and Philip II are among the least sufficiently esteemed treasures of Spain. This beautifully illustrated exhibition catalog of material drawn from the Patrimonio Nacional should help redress this dereliction and stimulate renewed interest in these master works of Renaissance art. The volume's text provides an introductory overview of the dynastic and historical setting and catalog entries for the individual objects. Unfortunately, the competent but narrow treatment of the tapestries offers little more than the factual essentials. The discussion of the armor more fully documents and describes the objects. The formal and iconographic diversity of these well-selected examples, the excellence of the illustrations, and the core of useful information amply justify the acquisition of this volume by larger public libraries and art collections.