King Charles III unveils his first official portrait since his coronation

The portrait of the King includes a monarch butterfly at his own suggestion

King Charles III has revealed the first official portrait of himself since ascending to the throne, a striking depiction showcasing him in the vibrant red attire of the Welsh Guards set against a backdrop of similar hues.

Artist Jonathan Yeo, center, and King Charles III at the unveiling of Jonathan's portrait of the king, in the blue drawing room at Buckingham Palace, London

Crafted by artist Jonathan Yeo, the larger-than-life painting captures the king with his hands resting atop the sword hilt, while a butterfly flutters gracefully above his right shoulder. Charles had his initial viewing of the canvas at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday.

Yeo commenced work on the portrait over a year ago, conducting sittings with the then-Prince of Wales at his Highgrove estate in June 2021. The final sitting occurred in November 2023 at Clarence House, one of the king’s London residences.

The King and Queen at the unveiling of the portrait by Jonathan Yeo, fourth from left, at Buckingham Palace

“When I embarked on this project, His Majesty The King was still His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales. Much like the butterfly I’ve depicted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has evolved with the subject's evolving role in public life,” remarked Yeo.

Jonathan Yeo, the artist behind the portrait, said he tried to capture the King's 'warmth and kindness and curiosity and humour'

Measuring approximately 8 1/2 by 6 1/2 feet, the portrait will be exhibited at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from May 16 to June 14. Subsequently, it will find a new home at Drapers’ Hall in late August.

King Charles III greets artist Jonathan Yeo at the unveiling of Jonathan's portrait of the King

The commission of this portrait celebrates Charles’ 50-year association with the Drapers’ Company, established over 600 years ago as a guild for wool merchants. Over time, the organization incorporated philanthropic endeavors, transforming into a grant-giving body.