First Official Portrait of King Charles III Unveiled
On May 14, 2024, the first official portrait of King Charles III since his coronation was revealed at Buckingham Palace. The portrait was painted by Jonathan Yeo and depicts the King, 75, wearing the uniform of the Welsh Guards, set against a red backdrop symbolizing dynamism and modernity. Yeo commenced this work in 2021 with sittings at Highgrove and Clarence House, completing the piece in 2023.
The notable detail of a butterfly on King Charles's shoulder was suggested by the King himself, symbolizing metamorphosis and rebirth. The butterfly ties into King Charles’s passion for nature and environmental matters, reflecting his transformation since being crowned.
The King and Queen Camilla both expressed approval of the portrait, with the Queen commenting on the likeness, and the artist Yeo noting he aimed to capture the life experiences and humanity of the King. The portrait, measuring approximately 8.5 by 6.5 feet, will be placed in Drapers' Hall among other regal artworks.