Antonio Morales and Family

This work is one of the most outstanding family paintings of the 19th century. In this painting, the artist, José María Espinosa portrays Antonio Morales with his wife, Ana María Espinosa Prieto, and their daughter, Gertrudis Morales. 

The painting highlights the economic status of the Morales family, and the symbolic importance of marriage in Colombian society at the time. 

Antonio Morales was one of the most influential managers of the independence process. He played a crucial role in the events of the 20th of July of 1810 as a member of Santafé’s town council, and being a participant in the Governing Board that marked the beginning of the nation.  

Despite this, he is not shown in military uniform, but in a domestic environment. The work focuses on the private aspect of the hero, highlighting his role within a powerful family, showing a lesser known but equally significant aspect of his life. 

The gray false collar of her dress and the gloves are other details that highlight her social position. Her hairstyle shows a tendency towards simplicity, in contrast to the previous ostentation in women's fashion. 

The daughter dresses similarly to her mother, since at the time there was no specific wardrobe for children, as they were considered small adults. Gertrudis wears curls in her hair, which was a recent fashion trend. 

She also wears earrings, rings, a bracelet and a golden chain with a charm, probably religious.
  

In the nineteenth century, belonging to a distinguished family ensured stability and social status. Marriages were performed at an early age, since life expectancy was not considerably high.