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Item Details

Oil Portrait of King Charles II Wearing the Royal Garter
English School, 19th Century, circa 1850, after Sir Peter Lely (1618–1680)
A refined 19th-century oil painting after Sir Peter Lely’s celebrated portrait of King Charles II, reflecting the Victorian revival of royal imagery and the enduring appeal of Restoration portraiture. This work captures the authority and elegance associated with one of Britain’s most recognisable monarchs, making it a strong decorative and historical statement piece.
Subject & Medium
Oil on canvas, circa 1850, depicting King Charles II in armour with elements associated with the Order of the Garter, a symbol of royal authority and chivalric tradition.
Composition & Technique
The King is shown in a composed three-quarter pose, gazing outward with calm assurance. He wears a full periwig, armour, and a white cravat, with a suspended insignia referencing the Order of the Garter.
The palette is characteristically subdued, with deep browns, blacks, and warm tonal passages typical of 19th-century interpretations of Old Master works. These darker tones enhance the modelling of the face and highlight the crisp white cravat, while restrained highlights across the armour create depth and structure.
The painting demonstrates a later hand, with softer facial modelling and broader, more economical brushwork elsewhere. The expression conveys controlled authority and restraint, consistent with idealised royal portraiture.
About the Sitter
King Charles II (1630–1685), born at St James’s Palace, was the son of Charles I and Henrietta Maria. His life was shaped by the English Civil War and subsequent exile following his father’s execution in 1649.
After years abroad, he was restored to the throne in 1660, marking the return of the monarchy. His reign revived court culture, the arts, and royal patronage, despite being marked by major events such as the Great Plague and the Great Fire of London.
As Sovereign of the Order of the Garter, Charles II symbolised continuity in royal and chivalric tradition. Though he left no legitimate heirs, his lineage continued through acknowledged descendants within the British aristocracy.
Historical Significance
During the 19th century, there was a strong resurgence of interest in Britain’s royal past. Paintings such as this were produced for collectors seeking connections to earlier historical periods.
This example follows established 17th-century portrait conventions while reflecting Victorian taste, preserving the visual language of the Restoration court for a later audience.
About the Artist
Sir Peter Lely was the leading court painter to Charles II and a central figure in British portraiture. His compositions defined the visual identity of the Restoration court and were widely reproduced by his studio and later artists.
This painting, executed circa 1850, is a later interpretation after Lely, demonstrating the continued appreciation of his work in Victorian Britain.
Signature
Unsigned, as is typical for works of this type and period.
Size
Canvas: 62 cm (H) × 52 cm (W)
Framed: 71.5 cm (H) × 61 cm (W) × 2 cm (D)
Portrait orientation
Frame
Presented in the original frame, recently overpainted in gold to provide a uniform appearance. There are underlying signs of age including minor losses and surface irregularities beneath the later finish. Structurally sound and ready for display.
Provenance
Private Collection of Christopher & Susan (Sally) Kevill-Davies (UK), with collection label verso (inventory no. 139)
Subsequently in the UK art trade
Offered at Woolley & Wallis, Salisbury, Old Masters sale, 2026
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Previously loaned to the Shropshire-based dealership “Famous Lord Hill Museum”
Collector Context
The Kevill-Davies Collection represents a carefully assembled private collection focused on early English material culture. Christopher Kevill-Davies is associated with the study of historic English furniture and has family ties to Norfolk. Sally Kevill-Davies is a published author on historical collectibles. The presence of a collection label and inventory number indicates structured private ownership.
Key Selling Points
Recognisable portrait of King Charles II
After Sir Peter Lely, leading court painter
Strong example of 19th-century historical revival painting
Attractive tonal depth and traditional aesthetic
Documented private collection provenance
Recently presented through Woolley & Wallis (2026)
Impressive decorative impact for classic interiors
Condition Report
The painting is in stable condition and ready for display. The canvas is structurally sound. Surface wear is consistent with age, including minor paint loss, areas of thinning, and historic retouching, mainly in darker sections. Fine craquelure is visible throughout.
The varnish appears slightly uneven and may benefit from a light professional clean. The central facial features remain well preserved.
The frame has been overpainted in gold, with visible signs of age beneath the surface, though it remains stable and suitable for display.
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packed and fully insured.
Explore Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD for further curated works of art and antiques.

• Period: 19th century
• • Price: £8,500.00
  • €9,833 Euro
  • $11,578 US Dollar
• Location: London
• • Dimensions: H: 71.5cm (28.15in)
  • W: 61cm (24.02in)
  • D: 2cm (0.79in)