Titian was popular as a portrait artist, and his genius is displayed in this example. Instead of portraying stiffly symbolic figures, Titian’s studies reveal the character of the sitter through positioning and expression. More traditional props, such as a book (like the one held by Isabella) or a family crest are sometimes included, but these seem secondary to a vivid portrayal of temperament through details like position of the hands and set of the jaw. This can be seen in the portrait of Isabella of Portugal. Isabella was known as a beautiful, capable empress, and in Titian’s rendition she looks out from the picture with the confidence and intelligence for which she was renowned. Her direct gaze and carefully ornate hair and clothing emphasize her status as Holy Roman Empress.
Isabella was the beloved wife of Charles V and the beloved queen of Francis Borgia. When she died May 1, 1539, Francis Borgia, as Marquess of Lombay and former equerry to the empress, accompanied the corpse to Granada. During this journey Francis had an opportunity to reflect on the changes death had wrought in Isabella and on the vanity of serving any master but God. He resolved to reform his life and pursue sanctity. Francis Borgia was able to meet with Blessed John of Avila who preached the funeral service for the empress, and receive further encouragement. Francis died 33 years later, after a holy life wholly spent for love of God and souls. As the General of the Jesuits he had done much to strengthen the order. His personal sanctity attracted people to the Jesuit order and his zeal to convert souls led him extend the order all over the world, strengthening old houses and opening new missions in Europe, Florida, Peru, the Indies, Japan, Brazil, and India. Isabella ought to be remembered, not only for her leadership, but for the role she played in the life of St. Francis Borgia.
