Artwork

Charles I of England (1600-1649) as Prince of Wales

Charles I of England (1600-1649) as Prince of Wales, by Unknown, 1624
Charles I of England (1600-1649) as Prince of Wales, by Unknown, 1624

Charles I of England (1600-1649) as Prince of Wales is a photography by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The portrait, executed in 1624, depicts Charles I of England during his tenure as Prince of Wales.

About this work

Overview

The portrait, executed in 1624, depicts Charles I of England during his tenure as Prince of Wales. Rendered in monochrome, the figure stands before a modest interior setting that includes a window and a draped table. The composition conveys a formal, dignified presence, emphasizing the young heir’s status through his elaborate attire and poised bearing.

Subject & Meaning

Charles I is shown in regal costume, his attire marked by a large ruffled collar, a dark, padded jacket with pronounced shoulders, and matching knee‑length breeches. The white handkerament held in his right hand and the restrained pose underscore his emerging authority and the ceremonial aspects of his princely role within the early Stuart court.

Technique & Style

The work employs a restrained black‑and‑white palette, focusing on tonal contrast to model the rich textures of silk, velvet, and lace. Fine brushwork delineates the intricate folds of the clothing and the subtle play of light across the window and table, reflecting a Baroque sensibility for drama and detail despite the absence of colour.

History & Provenance

Attributed to the artist catalogued as 34177_person, the portrait entered the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it remains on display. Its creation date of 1624 places it early in Charles’s life, prior to his accession to the throne in 1625, offering a visual record of his princely image before his reign.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known