3-097-678 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

The Duke and Duchess of San Fernando de Quiroga, in front of a landscape, c1832. Portrait of the first Dukes of San Fernando de Quiroga, art collectors and patrons. Duchess María Luisa Fernanda de Borbón y Vallabriga (1783-1846), was the daughter of Infante Luis Antonio de Borbón y Farnesio and Teresa de Vallabriga y Rozas. She was the sister of Luis María, Archbishop of Toledo, and María Teresa, 15th Countess of Chinchón, wife of the royal favourite Manuel Godoy. Her sister's marriage led to her rehabilitation within the Bourbon family; she recovered her paternal surname, the recognition of her status as an Infanta of Spain, and her inclusion in the Order of Noble Ladies of María Luisa. The closeness to the royal family of her husband, Joaquín José Melgarejo y Saurín (1780-1835), 2nd Marquis of Melgarejo, 1st Duke of San Fernando de Quiroga, Knight of the Order of Calatrava, earned him the insignia of the Orders of Charles III and the Golden Fleece. He was recognized as a benefactor of the nation for his actions during the French invasion and appointed State Councillor by Ferdinand VII. However, the couple were forced into exile in France, but were allowed to return to Spain, although Joaquín died the following year.