Joseph Solís Folch de Cardona, Viceroy from 1753 to 1761

Among the few New Granada portraits that are preserved today, we find those of the viceroys. These were inspired by those of the 18th-century Spanish royalty, and represented a white masculine elite of peninsular origin, to which Joseph Solís de Cardona belonged. 

This cartouche accounts for the identity of the viceroy, indicates his positions, and lists some important works carried out under his government, as the completion of San Juan de Dios Hospital in Santafe. It also informs of his admission to the Franciscan convent in the city.

The cartouche mentions Viceroy José Pizarro —who preceded him and before whom Solís swore his oath— and Viceroy Pedro Messía de la Zerda, who succeeded him. It also refers to the kings Ferdinand VI and Charles III, who reigned while Solís held his position. 

Here the viceroy wears sophisticated clothing of bright colors and a wig with three curls, elements that are examples of "French-style" fashion inspired by the luxurious sumptuousness that began to spread in the 18th century, with the coming of the bourbons to power. 

Two emblems represent the religious and military order of Montesa to which Solís belonged. On the right is the old coat of arms, approved by Clement VII in 1397; on the left, the one established three years later, after the order of Saint George was incorporated into it.

Elements such as the red curtain and the table denote the importance of the sitter. These are objects that only few could access, and that were only shown in the portraits of those who were close to royalty. 

The staff of command held by Viceroy Solís in one of his hands as well as the tricorne, refer to his authority in New Granada. The white gloves connote his prestige. 

The iconography that accompanies the viceroy in this portrait seeks to show that Joseph Solís belonged to a select group of Spanish nobility. It was a set of symbols reproduced in the images of the series of viceroys that is preserved today in the Colonial Museum.