Charles II, Crown Prince of England (1630-1685) c. 1646 - 1650

François Dieussart crafted this marble bust of Charles II, Crown Prince of England, sometime between 1630 and 1685. Notice how Dieussart uses a contrast of textures to create visual interest. The smooth polish of Charles' face and flowing hair juxtaposes against the more roughly hewn armour, creating a dynamic interplay between vulnerability and strength. The linear precision of the armour's design and the cascading curls of Charles' hair create a formal tension between order and fluidity. This contrast isn’t just aesthetic; it's a sign, a visual language. In the context of 17th-century portraiture, such a composition reflects the era's concerns with power, status, and the projection of an idealised image. However, Dieussart's approach destabilises the clear, propagandistic intent of the artwork by layering it with elements of both control and artistic expression. This approach invites an ongoing interpretation of how art functions within a society that attempts to shape and define its rulers.