Karel Stuart (1600-49), prins van Wales. De latere koning Karel I van Engeland 1615 - 1647

Peter Oliver painted this miniature portrait of Karel Stuart, later King Charles I of England, using watercolors on vellum. The tiny scale and jewel-like quality speak to the rarefied world it inhabited. This wasn't painting for public consumption, but an intimate token, likely for the sitter himself or a close associate. The colours, though muted now, would have been vivid, achieved by layering translucent washes of pigment. The fine details, like the lace collar and the gold embroidery, highlight Oliver's skill and the luxury of the court. Consider the labour involved here. The vellum had to be carefully prepared, the pigments ground, and the details meticulously applied with tiny brushes. The precious metal frame adds to the effect of exclusivity and wealth, reminding us of the social distance between the king and his subjects. Ultimately, this miniature is a testament to the power of materials and processes to convey not just likeness, but also social and political meaning.