Who commissioned Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Velazquez to be his court painter?

The correct answer is King Philip IV of Spain, who commissioned Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Velazquez to be his court painter. Velazquez served in this influential role from 1623 until his death in 1660. His work was instrumental in defining the role of the artist at the royal court and establishing a new standard for portrait painting.

Velazquez's association with King Philip IV significantly impacted the nature of Spanish art, capturing not only the physical likeness of the royal subjects but also their character and status. His masterpieces, including "Las Meninas," exemplify his skill and the deep trust placed in him by the king, illustrating both the personal and political dimensions of their relationship.

The other options do not represent individuals who commissioned Velazquez in a royal capacity. King Louis XIV was from France and did not have a direct connection to Velazquez, while Pope Urban VIII was an influential patron of artists but not directly related to Velazquez's role at the Spanish court. Michelangelo, a Renaissance artist, came before Velazquez and did not commission him in any capacity, as their careers did not overlap.