King Charles III's first portrait revealed, standing eight feet tall
The first official portrait of King Charles III since his coronation has been unveiled at Buckingham Palace. The eight-foot-tall masterpiece, painted by renowned British artist Jonathan Yeo, features the king in the uniform of the Welsh Guards. Set against a vivid red backdrop that blends with the king's uniform, the painting creates a powerful visual impact. Yeo is known for his portraits of luminaries such as Queen Camilla and former British Prime Ministers Tony Blair and David Cameron.
King Charles III's ascension and portrait commission
The unveiling of King Charles's portrait marks a significant milestone in his reign, which began in September 2022 following the death of his mother—Queen Elizabeth II. His coronation alongside his wife Camilla took place in May 2023. The portrait was commissioned back in 2020 to celebrate Charles's 50 years as a member of The Drapers's Company in 2022. According to Buckingham Palace, the oil on canvas artwork will be displayed at Drapers's Hall in London from the end of August.
Symbolism and royal approval of the portrait
A notable feature of the portrait is a butterfly hovering above King Charles's shoulder. Yeo explained this symbolic touch, stating, "In the history of art, the butterfly symbolizes metamorphosis and rebirth." He added that this was appropriate for a portrait of a recently-ascended monarch and also signified a king who has championed environmental causes. The royal family has expressed approval for the portrait, with Queen Camilla reportedly saying to Yeo, "Yes, you've got him," according to the BBC.
Take a look at the portrait
'Much like butterfly...this portrait has evolved as the subject's role'
Reflecting on the process of painting the British king, the artist shared, "When I started this project, His Majesty The King was still His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales..." "Much like the butterfly I've painted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has evolved as the subject's role in our public life has transformed," he said. To note, the 75-year-old king resumed his royal duties last month while undergoing treatment after his cancer diagnosis, which was announced on February 5.
Yeo's artistic journey and royal commissions
Yeo has a history of painting notable figures. His portfolio includes celebrities like Nicole Kidman and Sir David Attenborough, as well as political figures such as Blair and Cameron. Yeo also painted the king's late father, Prince Philip. Recalling his experience with Prince Philip, Yeo told The New York Times, "He was a bit of a caged tiger. I can't imagine he was easy as a father, but he was entertaining as a subject."
