Jacobus II (1633-1701), de latere koning van Engeland, als jongeman 1656

This is a miniature portrait of Jacobus II, painted by Louis du Guernier, likely during the mid-17th century. It's created using watercolor on vellum, a fine parchment made from animal skin, stretched and prepared to receive paint. The artist built up the image through delicate, thin layers of pigment, achieving subtle gradations of tone and texture, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the face and the elaborate wig. Miniatures like this were luxury objects, often worn as jewelry or kept in small cases, signifying wealth and status. The labor-intensive process of preparing the vellum, grinding pigments, and meticulously applying paint speaks to a culture that valued skilled handcraftsmanship and bespoke production, where a direct relationship existed between artist, patron and subject. Considering the meticulousness and value placed on the portrait, it’s clear this wasn't just an image but a potent symbol of power, carefully constructed through material and process.