Period Portraits has dated this King Charles II Oil Portrait to the 17th Century.
Portraits such as this were historical significant and has a role as political propaganda designed to stabilize England following years of civil war. Following the 1660 Restoration of the monarchy, King Charles II had to swiftly legitimie his rule after eleven years of republican governance under Oliver Cromwell. Portraits like this served as an immediate visual assertion of his absolute right to the throne.
During his long exile in Europe, granting the Garter dignity to loyal supporters was the only proof Charles possessed that he still held the mystical authority of a king and by wearing the heavy ceremonial collar and badge reconnected his reign directly to centuries of English royal tradition, completely bypassing the memory of the Commonwealth era.
In fact compositions such as this helped to define the visual identity of the Stuart Restoration court. The ‘merry monarchs” dramatic high-fashion French wig, slender moustache, and flamboyant lace collar intentionally projected an image of effortless wealth, swagger, and cultural sophistication. Such visual wealth was weaponised to directly counter the strict, austere Puritanism that had previously ruled England
This painting is housed in its original fine carved and gilded 17th century frame which has a wonderful mellow patina
Provenance: Anonymous sale Christies King Street 1937 (according to stencil verso). Private collection Dorset.
Higher resolution images on request.
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Canvas: 70cm x 65cm.
Framed: 86cm x 74cm.
Price: £5800
Period Portraits has dated this King Charles II Oil Portrait to the 17th Century.
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Oil on Canvas Portrait of King Charles II (1630-1685) - Circle of Sir Peter Lely (1618-1680)
