The Kings look at themselves in Leibovitz's mirror: "What do you think?"

Felipe VI and Letizia have seen their portraits for the first time with the help of the photographer at the Bank of Spain

When Carlos III saw his finished portrait, they say he felt disappointed. "Too true!" he exclaimed before Anton Raphael Mengs' painting. The monarch, who was not very handsome, thought that the realism of the work had done him a disservice. Felipe VI, a declared admirer of Carlos III, did not show any displeasure today, although we will never know his exact opinion. A year after the photo shoot with Annie Leibovitz, the King and Queen were able to see their portraits in person at the Bank of Spain. Asked how they look, the King ventured to say: "It is not us who have to say it." Much more handsome, of course, than Carlos III. And also more modest.

Annie Leibovitz, Prince of Asturias Award for Communication, waited for Don Felipe and Doña Letizia at the door of the Bank of Spain. The harmony between the three is evident and also the reason why she agreed to a commission that cost the institution 137,000 euros. The American photographer is no longer very active, and has once again worked her magic with the King and Queen.

Both stood in front of the diptych with broad smiles and seemingly approving comments. Letizia, dressed in a suit jacket of the exact colour of the Balenciaga cape in the image, answered the journalists: "What do you think?" Indeed, there was unanimity in the Hollywood photogenicity of the royal couple.

With their backs turned, the Kings faced each other with the image they project. Then, as in a studied choreography, they crossed paths and positioned themselves face to face with the other. The most charismatic contemporary photographer, dressed in black and wearing boots as usual, joined them and they shared a moment of chat. They were accompanied, among others, by the Minister of Agriculture, Luis Planas, and the Governor of the Bank of Spain, José Luis Escrivá.

Conceived to be always displayed next to each other (metaphor or omen?), the two panels are large in size, 223.52 x 170.18 centimeters each. With a fabric texture that can be deceiving at first glance, they are the largest portraits in the long career of the Connecticut photographer. The King, on the left, embodies all the solemnity and sobriety of the office with military uniform, the blue sash of the Order of Charles III, the Golden Fleece and other decorations. He is surrounded by the most classic "props": a table, the chandelier, the mirror and the open door in the background. Apparently, the first two options, a tailcoat and a tailcoat, were finally discarded by Leibovitz.

Perhaps as the perfect counterpoint to Don Felipe, the Queen appears on the right devoid of all the symbolism of her office. Neither tiara nor sash of Charles III; The only jewels she wears are the necklace of chatons that Alfonso XIII gave to Queen Victoria Eugenia when they were still engaged, two matching earrings and what they say is her favourite ring, a gift from her daughters.

The exhibition “The Tyranny of Cronos”, held in the room where the photographs hang, is having a record number of visitors. Specifically, 26,000 in twelve weeks. So much interest has caused the exhibition to be extended until 31 May. All the Kings of Spain since 1782 have been photographed for the Bank's collection: Goya, Madrazo, Sorolla and, now, John Lennon's favourite photographer.