— London Britain’s King Charles III has unveiled the first official portrait of himself since his coronation, and it has garnered conflicting reviews.
Jonathan Yeo’s painting portrays the monarch as if he were to emerge from a fiery crimson background. It appears as though a butterfly is poised to perch on his right shoulder.
In 2020, Yeo was commissioned to create a regal work to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the then-Prince of Wales’ membership in the Drapers’ Company. Yeo’s body of work includes portraits of notable individuals, including former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair.
The painting was produced in accordance with the architecture of Drapers’ Hall. The portrait will be displayed in the grand chamber of the Livery Company, a historic institution in London that has been in existence since the 14th century.
Charles, who serves as the Regimental Colonel of the Welsh Guards, is depicted assuming their uniform.
In response to the subject’s altered position in our public sphere, this portrait has witnessed a transformation, much like the butterfly that I depicted hovering over his shoulder. “I endeavor to immortalize the life experiences that are inscribed in the face of each individual,” Yeo declared of his work. “I also aimed to convey the subject’s profound humanity in a way that reflects a monarchy of the twenty-first century, while also referencing the traditions of regal portraiture.” “I am ecstatic at the prospect of capturing the historic moment of his coronation and the opportunity to document an individual of his stature and uniqueness.”
According to BBC News, a partner network of CBS News, Yeo reported that Charles viewed the painting “in a semi-completed state” and was “mildly startled by the vibrant hue, but otherwise appeared to be grinning in approbation.”
It is alleged that Queen Camilla affirmed, “Yes, you have him,” upon first viewing the portrait.
Yeo disclosed to the BBC that the late Queen Elizabeth II observed King Charles’ final portrait session and expressed her satisfaction with the accuracy of her son’s likeness.
Nevertheless, since its unveiling, a plethora of unfavorable evaluations from non-royal family members have been shared on social media.
Although an admirer commented in the comments section of the royal family’s official Instagram page that the portrait depicted Charles rising above “enduring battles akin to murky waters” with “clarity and grace,” numerous others appeared to find it difficult to overlook the striking red hues.
One user observed that “He seems to be submerged in blood,” while another declared, “This is the most repugnant regal portrait I have ever encountered.”
A third user suggested that an alternative color would have been more effective.
“I would have loved this in a color other than red,” the user stated. “He captured the essence of his being in the face; however, the intensity of the crimson does not align with the tenderness of his expression.”
