Karel II (1630-85), koning van Engeland 1665

Here we see Samuel Cooper’s likeness of Charles II, King of England, contained within an oval frame. The immediate impression is one of sumptuousness, defined by the dark, flowing curls of the wig, the lace collar, and the royal blue sash. The painterly surface has a rich texture with vibrant colours, giving depth to the King's features and attire. Cooper masterfully employs the formal elements to convey status and power. The composition, neatly contained within the oval, focuses attention on the King’s face, composed yet confident. Cooper uses color to denote status; the opulent blues and reds, along with the gold embellishments, signify royalty. Semiotically, these are visual codes that underscore Charles’s position. The use of light and shadow adds to the drama. By destabilizing the conventional symmetry of portraiture, Cooper suggests a dynamic, living presence. This asymmetry disrupts any fixed or predictable reading, embodying the complex power relations of the time. It encourages ongoing interpretation.