King Charles I 1628

Gerard van Honthorst's "King Charles I" (1628) depicts the English monarch in a formal portrait, showcasing his power and authority. Honthorst, a Dutch Baroque painter, uses chiaroscuro, a technique of strong contrasts between light and dark, to highlight the king's features. Charles I wears a lavish outfit, complete with a lace collar and striped doublet, signifying his royal status. The king's contemplative expression as he examines a document adds a layer of intrigue to the portrait, suggesting a moment of decision-making.