Francis I (1494–1547), King of France 1507 - 1541

This oil painting, created by Joos van Cleve between 1507 and 1541, depicts Francis I, King of France. The portrait, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features the king in a detailed, realistic manner, with a focus on his attire and demeanor. The rich, red fabric of his doublet, the intricate details of his jeweled collar, and the elegant feathered beret he wears speak to his royal status. The king’s serious expression and gesture, holding a small object in his hand, hint at his authority and power. The painting is a quintessential example of Northern Renaissance portraiture, highlighting the artistic flourishing of this period.