King Charles III unveils his first official portrait since his coronation
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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