Charles II Giving an Audience at Christ's Hospital
1690
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1690
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a scene of Charles II giving an audience at Christ's Hospital. The king is seated on a throne, surrounded by several men in red and black robes, while others in blue and white clothing kneel or stand around him. A large piece of parchment is held up by one of the men in black robes, and a globe sits on the floor in front of the throne. The atmosphere appears formal, with the king and his attendants engaged in a serious discussion. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts of light and dark to create a sense of volume, adds depth and drama to the scene.
