The Buffoon Calabazas (Calabacillas) or The Idiot of Coria of is an oil on canvas portrait created by notable painter Diego Velázquez in 1638-1637. This painting is just one part of a series depicting all the affluent and important members of King Philip IV’s court. In the painting, Calabazas is depicted as a jester named Juan de Calabazas, peering out from within his marvelous attire, complete with tassels, beads and bells. The original piece is currently proudly displayed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, with dimensions of 175.5 x 106.7 cm.
This masterpiece by Velázquez denotes his grand skill as both an artist and a political courtier, showcasing how he managed to paint subjects both with the utmost respect yet while still maintaining the very essence of satire. He always emphasized line and composition over sensual facts and flourish – even Juan de Calabazas. This attention to detail defining figures is superbly depicted in Philip IV – Diego Velàzquez c. 1624-1627; another stunning example of proud Spanish artwork and timelessness only enhanced by this masterful artist’s use of color, depth and shadows for each figure’s true physicality.
