Artwork
Charles I and Henrietta Maria Facing to the Right [left half]
![Charles I and Henrietta Maria Facing to the Right [left half], by Dutch 17th Century, ink, 1650](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/dutch-17th-century--charles-i-and-henrietta-maria-facing-to-the-right-left-half--861063d40095507a-w1024.webp)
Charles I and Henrietta Maria Facing to the Right [left half] is an ink print by the Baroque artist Dutch 17th Century. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The work is a circular print derived from a silver medal, depicting a male and female figure turned toward the right.
About this work
Overview
The work is a circular print derived from a silver medal, depicting a male and female figure turned toward the right. The male figure wears a crown and a flowing cloak, while the female figure is dressed in an elaborate gown topped by a large hat. Both are rendered in profile within a dense ornamental border that fills the composition.
Subject & Meaning
The portraiture presents Charles I of England alongside his consort, Henrietta Maria. Their side‑view poses and regal attire emphasize their sovereign status and marital alliance, a common visual strategy in early‑17th‑century royal iconography to convey authority and unity.
Technique & Style
Engraved from a silver medal, the image employs fine line work and cross‑hatching to suggest texture and depth. The intricate surrounding patterns, characteristic of Baroque ornamental design, frame the central figures and create a sense of richness despite the monochrome medium.
History & Provenance
Originally struck as a medal, the design was later transferred to paper through an engraving process, a method used to disseminate royal imagery beyond the limited circulation of metal medals. The print is catalogued as the left half of a two‑part composition, indicating it was once part of a larger, paired set.
Artist & collection
Artist
This Dutch artist made small, sharp engravings and etchings—mostly portraits and sea battles—printed from metal plates.
![Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [left half], by Dutch 17th Century](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/dutch-17th-century--three-crowns-supported-by-two-sceptres-left-half--f6b61a3078075d6c-w320.webp)
![Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [right half], by Dutch 17th Century](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/dutch-17th-century--three-crowns-supported-by-two-sceptres-right-half--a6fa523aedde07e0-w320.webp)