This work undertakes a complete study of the painting market in 17 th century Spain, which, through the analysis of numerous examples of historic sales and public auctions, offers a detailed view of the different mechanisms for buying and selling paintings during the reigns of Philip III, Philip IV and Charles II: (Commissions from the Court, the Nobility or the Church, public auctions, taxes) and likewise the protagonists of these transactions (artists, bidding agents, traders). It includes an extensive documentary appendix.