Question

Based on the description, what is the composition of the portrait of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz?

1) Conventional portrait of a male scholar
2) Full-length portrait of a female subject dressed in a nun's habit
3) Portrait of a scholar and hero
4) Portrait of a feminist

Answer 1

The portrait of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz is best described as a full-length portrait of a female subject dressed in a nun's habit, in line with the Monjas Coronadas tradition during the Viceroyalty of New Spain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Composition of the Portrait of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz

The composition of the portrait of Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz is most precisely described as a full-length portrait of a female subject dressed in a nun's habit. This description aligns with the tradition of religious portraits, specifically Monjas Coronadas, which were customized to commemorate the final vows taken by women joining convents in the Viceroyalty of New Spain. These portraits highlighted their religious dedication and were characterized by sumptuous Baroque attire and religious symbolism, such as crowns and escudos de monjas, indicating their spiritual marriage and devotion to the Christ child.

While the portrait of Sor Juana indeed represents a figure of immense historical importance to feminism and literature, the conventions of her time depicted her within the context of her religious role. Therefore, option 2, 'Full-length portrait of a female subject dressed in a nun's habit', would be the most accurate composition to describe her portrait on the basis of the provided reference material.