Artwork

Queen Henrietta Maria of England

Queen Henrietta Maria of England, by Anthony van Dyck, oil, 1639
Queen Henrietta Maria of England, by Anthony van Dyck, oil, 1639

Queen Henrietta Maria of England is an oil painting by Anthony van Dyck. It dates from 1639 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Queen Henrietta Maria of England is a 1639 oil painting by Anthony van Dyck, a prominent Flemish Baroque artist. The portrait is now held in the Statens Museum for Kunst.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Henrietta Maria of France, wife of King Charles I of England, showcasing her status and confidence. Her attire, adorned with gold embroidery and delicate lace, signifies her importance.

Technique & Style

Van Dyck's use of a dark background and attention to the subject's clothing details, such as gold trim on her sleeves, creates a sense of depth and highlights her luxurious attire. The calm and confident expression on her face is characteristic of Van Dyck's portrait style.

History & Provenance

Anthony van Dyck, trained under Peter Paul Rubens, became a master in Antwerp's Guild of Saint Luke by 1617 and later gained prominence in European courts, including England where he became the leading court artist.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anthony van Dyck

Artist

Anthony van Dyck

Sir Anthony van Dyck (; Dutch: Antoon van Dijck ; 22 March 1599 – 9 December 1641) was a Flemish Baroque artist, who became the leading court painter in England after success in the Spanish Netherlands and Italy.