King Charles III's Official Portrait Unveiling at Buckingham Palace
LONDON—King Charles III's first official portrait, painted by artist Jonathan Yeo, was unveiled at Buckingham Palace on May 14, 2024. The portrait, commissioned in 2020, commemorates Charles's 50 years as a member of The Drapers' Company.
Key Details:
- Event: Portrait Unveiling
- Date: May 14, 2024
- Location: Buckingham Palace, London
- Artist: Jonathan Yeo
- Subject: King Charles III in Welsh Guards uniform
- Dimensions: Approximately 8.5 by 6.5 feet
The portrait displays King Charles in crimson attire, resting both hands on a sword, with a butterfly over his right shoulder. The predominantly red backdrop has attracted various interpretations from the public and commentators alike.
The portrait was developed over several sittings starting in June 2021 when Charles was still Prince of Wales, concluding in November 2023 at Clarence House. Yeo included input from Charles, such as the butterfly, signifying transformation in his public life. The portrait has sparked mixed reactions, some alluding to the fiery red as suggestive of intense scrutiny or turmoil.
Yeo is known for his distinctive and sometimes controversial depictions of his subjects, aiming to capture their essence beyond mere superficial likeness. The portrait now awaits to be displayed alongside other notable artworks in Drapers' Hall.