Artwork
Charles II as Prince of Wales
Charles II as Prince of Wales is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
This is a black-and-white portrait of a young man with curly hair and a serious expression.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a young man with curly hair and a serious expression. He’s wearing a fancy, ruffled collar and a patterned jacket. The image is framed inside a circle, like a coin or a seal.
The text below says his name is Charles, and he holds titles like "Prince of Wales." The date 1641 is written in the corner, so this is old.
Want to see more? Look up engraving to learn how artists like this made detailed prints.
Overview
This 1641 engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar portrays Charles II in his youth as Prince of Wales, presented in a formal circular frame with accompanying titles and the creation date.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is Charles II, depicted as a young Prince of Wales, conveying his royal lineage and status through formal attire, including a ruffled collar and patterned jacket, with a serious demeanor.
Technique & Style
Executed in Hollar's characteristic detailed style, the black-and-white engraving showcases his printmaking prowess, typical of 17th-century royal documentation and dissemination methods.
History & Provenance
Created in 1641 by Czech-born engraver Wenceslaus Hollar, who primarily worked in England, the piece is an example of his work outside his more common cityscape and landscape themes.
Context
Produced during a time when engravings were a primary means of circulating royal images, this work served to document and popularize the young Prince of Wales's likeness among the population.
Artist & collection
Artist
Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.
