Henri II, King of France, at the age of 28
1547
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1547
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This painting shows a young king in shiny armor, crowned with a leafy wreath like an ancient Roman hero. His face is turned to the side, just like figures on old coins. Artists in the 1500s often dressed up kings as Roman generals to make them look strong and noble. The armor here is covered in tiny carved trophies—little shields, weapons, and flags—all meant to show power without saying a word. If you like this kind of royal portrait, look up *France, 16th century* for more.
