Charles I on horseback 1635

Anthony van Dyck's "Charles I on horseback" (1635), a celebrated portrait in the National Gallery, London, captures the regal presence of the English monarch. The painting showcases van Dyck's mastery of portraiture, with Charles I portrayed in full armor astride a magnificent white steed, his gaze directed confidently towards the viewer. The rich detail of the armor and the horse's flowing mane add to the painting's sense of grandeur, while the use of light and shadow creates a dynamic and lifelike image. This equestrian portrait was a common genre in the 17th century, often used to depict the power and authority of rulers.