London, England – Buckingham Palace has unveiled the official portrait of King Charles III following his coronation, painted by renowned British artist Jonathan Yeo. The controversial painting, measuring 8.5 by 6.5 feet, features vibrant red brushstrokes that have sparked mixed reactions among the public.
Yeo, known for his work with high-profile subjects like former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and education activist Malala Yousafzai, began the project while Charles was still the Prince of Wales. The portrait captures the monarch in the uniform of the Welsh Guards, holding a sword, set against a fiery red backdrop that adds a modern twist to traditional royal portraiture.
In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Yeo explained that the portrait reflects the evolving role of the king in public life. He aimed to convey the subject’s deep humanity while referencing the traditions of royal portraiture in a way that befits a 21st-century monarchy.
The painting, commissioned to celebrate Charles’ 50th anniversary as a member of The Drapers’ Company, will be on public display at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from May 16 to June 14 before being installed at Drapers’ Hall from late August onwards. Reports indicate that both the King and Queen are pleased with the portrait.
Social media reactions to the portrait have been polarized, with some users criticizing the choice of the red color and its symbolic implications, while others praised Yeo’s ability to capture the king’s essence. Art historian Richard Morris commended the portrait for its portrayal of the subject’s true appearance and humanity.
Aside from his oil paintings, Yeo has delved into collage art, creating satirical pieces like a portrait of former US President George W. Bush using cutouts from adult magazines. The artist’s work is part of the permanent collection at London’s National Portrait Gallery.
Yeo’s website explains that the vivid colors in the portrait pay homage to historical royal heritage while injecting a contemporary flair with a powerful hue. The butterfly in the painting is said to symbolize beauty and nature, reflecting the King’s passion for environmental causes.
In addition to his portrait being displayed, the King himself is an artist with a collection of watercolors on show in London. Describing painting as a therapeutic exercise, Charles finds solace and rejuvenation in the artistic process, reaching depths of the soul that other activities cannot touch.