Artwork
Charles II
Charles II is an ink print by the Baroque artist William Faithorne. It dates from 1654 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:upper center in plate: DIEV ET MON DROIT.; lower left in plate: Guil. Faithorne sculp:; lower center in plate: The Second Charles, Heire of ye Royall Martyr... / ...redeeme thy people and assume thy Owne.; lower right in plate J.O.; by later hand, lower right in graphite: 1st state; by later hand, upper left verso in graphite: A82707
About this work
Overview
This print is an engraving on laid paper titled 'Charles II', created by William Faithorne around 1654.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a man, identified as Charles, heir to a 'Royall Martyr', likely a reference to Charles I, executed in 1649. The subject is shown with curly hair and a mustache, wearing ornate attire and regalia, set against a simple oval frame with the motto 'Dieu et mon Droit'.
Technique & Style
Faithorne employed fine lines to achieve a high level of detail and create a three-dimensional effect, particularly in the subject's face. The use of engraving allowed for subtle shading and texture.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
William Faithorne (1616–1691) was a British artist, born in Greater London.
