Artwork

Portrait of Charles II (1630-1685) in royal robes.

Portrait of Charles II (1630-1685) in royal robes., by Samuel Cooper, unspecified, 1665
Portrait of Charles II (1630-1685) in royal robes., by Samuel Cooper, unspecified, 1665

Portrait of Charles II (1630-1685) in royal robes. is an unspecified painting by the Barbizon school artist Samuel Cooper. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.

About this work

Overview

Painted in 1665 by English miniature painter Samuel Cooper, *Portrait of Charles II in royal robes* is a detailed portrait of the English monarch in formal regalia, now part of the Mauritshuis collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Charles II (1630-1685), is depicted in attire signifying high status, including a blue robe with gold trim, red sash, and white glove, conveying his royal authority.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of Cooper's miniature portraiture expertise, the work exhibits meticulous detail, particularly in the facial features and textiles, aligning with 17th-century portrait conventions.

History & Provenance

Created by Samuel Cooper, younger brother of artist Alexander Cooper, the painting is notable for its deviation from the Barbizon school association, to which Cooper is linked, in favor of his signature miniature style.

Context

While Cooper's style echoes his contemporaries, a comparative analysis with other works by the artist could provide deeper insight into his technique and the piece's standing within his oeuvre.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Samuel Cooper

Artist

Samuel Cooper

Samuel Cooper (1609 – 5 May 1672), sometimes spelt Samuel Cowper, was an English miniature painter. He was the younger brother of Alexander Cooper.

Mauritshuis

Museum

Mauritshuis

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Mauritshuis open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.