Artwork
Portrait of Charles II Stuart (1630-1685)
Portrait of Charles II Stuart (1630-1685) is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Unknown. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. A round portrait on parchment depicts a youthful figure with a solemn expression.
About this work
Technique & Style
The diminutive format and choice of parchment align with contemporary French miniature traditions, which emphasized meticulous handling and fine detail.
The portrait is executed in miniature on parchment, a support prized for its smooth surface and durability in small-scale works. Measuring 5.1 × 4.3 cm, it was painted in 1650 in France by an anonymous artist. The diminutive format and choice of parchment align with contemporary French miniature traditions, which emphasized meticulous handling and fine detail.
As a portrait miniature, the work likely displays the precise brushwork and careful modeling characteristic of the genre, designed for intimate viewing and personal commemoration of the sitter.
History & Provenance
The work is a miniature portrait painted on parchment in France in 1650, depicting Charles II Stuart (1630-1685). It entered the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and remains part of its holdings, classified as a portrait and listed under the genre of miniature.
The painting was created during the mid-17th century, with its inception recorded as 1650, and was originally produced as a miniature portrait for personal or diplomatic purposes.
Overview
A round portrait on parchment depicts a youthful figure with a solemn expression.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is identified as Charles II Stuart, shown with curly dark hair, wearing formal attire including a white collar and blue sash, symbolizing his status.
Artist & collection
