In 1627 Velasquez won the prize for any image representing the expulsion with the Moors from Spain and was rewarded by "being appointed gentleman usher. To this was shortly afterward additional a regular allowance of twelve reals--the exact same sum which was permitted to court barbers--and ninety silver ducats ($204.12) a twelve months for dress, which was also settled towards the dwarfs, buffoons, and gamers regarding the king's person--truly a curious estimation of expertise in the court of Spain."
The report of Philip IV. with unpleasing, even degenerate characters, about him, is brightened through the believed of his commitment to his court artist and life-long friend. once the king's favourites fell, individuals who acquired been the acquaintances of Velasquez, the performer loyally remained their buddy in adversity as he acquired been whereas they have been powerful. This constancy, even towards the royal enemies, was never ever resented by Philip. He honoured the faithfulness of his artist, even as he himself was faithful during this friendship. Philip's court was this kind of that there is tiny to paint that was ennobling, and thus Velasquez lacked the inspiration of this kind of surroundings since the Italian painters had.
