Philip IV and the World of Spain’s Rey Planeta

This collection offers a nuanced exploration of Philip IV's reign, examining the contrasts between cultural flourishing and political crisis in Philip IV and the World of Spain’s Rey Planeta.

In Philip IV and the World of Spain’s Rey Planeta, a collection of essays delves into the complex legacy of Philip IV, the monarch often referred to as Spain's 'Planet King'. This volume explores the perceptions and representations of his reign during the tumultuous seventeenth century, a period characterized by widespread crises across Europe, including wars, revolutions, and significant financial challenges. The contributors examine how these historical events intersected with Philip's rule from 1621 to 1665, a time often viewed through a lens of decline and adversity.

Despite the prevailing narrative of decline, Philip IV and the World of Spain’s Rey Planeta also highlights the remarkable cultural and artistic achievements of the era, which have led to its recognition as Spain's Golden Age. The book meticulously analyzes the contradictions of Philip's reign, focusing on his understanding of kingship and the ways in which he and his courtiers employed art and ceremonial displays to project an image of strength and cultural prestige. This duality reveals the intricate relationship between the monarchy and the broader socio-political landscape of the time.

Through a careful examination of Philip IV's patronage and the artistic endeavors that flourished under his rule, the essays in this collection provide a nuanced perspective on a king whose legacy continues to provoke debate. The interplay of cultural vibrancy and political turmoil during his reign invites readers to reconsider the narratives surrounding Spain's history during the seventeenth century.