Spanish Royal Portraits by Annie Leibovitz Face Public Backlash

The opulent new portraits of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, commissioned for €137,000, draw criticism as Spain recovers from recent floods.

Renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz created large-scale portraits of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia in Madrid's Gasparini Room, emphasizing grandeur and tradition.
Queen Letizia wore vintage Balenciaga couture, while King Felipe donned a military gala uniform, with both portraits evoking a historical, almost painterly aesthetic.
The Spanish Central Bank funded the €137,000 portraits, sparking criticism over the use of public funds during a period of national recovery from devastating floods.
Critics argue the timing of the portrait release is insensitive, as many Spaniards continue to struggle with the aftermath of the floods in Valencia and other regions.
While the portraits are displayed for public viewing in Madrid, reactions highlight a disconnect between royal representation and public sentiment during a time of hardship.