Who painted King Richard III?

King Richard III was painted by Pieter van der Banck in 1673.

Where can I see King Richard III?

King Richard III is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is King Richard III?

King Richard III is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

King Richard III

Pieter van der Banck , 1673

King Richard III is an ink print by the Baroque artist Pieter van der Banck. It dates from 1673 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Pieter van der Banck’s 1673 print presents a portrait of King Richard III. Executed as an engraving, the work combines fine line work with shading to render the monarch’s likeness in a formal, dignified manner.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows Richard III as a sovereign, his long hair and crown emphasizing royal authority. He is dressed in a dark robe trimmed with a white collar and a decorative chain, symbols traditionally associated with medieval kingship.

Technique & Style

Created through etching and engraving, the print relies on intricate incised lines to model form and texture. The artist’s use of cross‑hatching produces subtle tonal variations, giving depth to the figure’s features and clothing.

History & Provenance

The engraving dates to 1673, a period when interest in England’s late medieval rulers was resurging. Van der Banck, a Dutch printmaker, produced the work for a market of collectors fascinated by historical portraiture.

Context

Richard III’s reputation was contested in the seventeenth century, with both vilification and romanticization influencing visual representations. This portrait aligns with contemporary efforts to depict him as a legitimate, regal figure rather than a villain.