King Charles II: A Portrait of Extravagance
Reign and Restoration
Charles II (May 29, 1630 – February 6, 1685) ruled as King of Scotland from 1649 until 1651 and King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from the 1660 Restoration.
Early Life and Civil War
When civil war erupted in 1642, the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, fled to France. Following the execution of his father, King Charles I, in 1649, he was proclaimed King of Scotland. However, after defeat in the Battle of Worcester in 1651, Charles went back into exile.
Return and Reign
The Restoration of the monarchy in 1660 saw Charles II ascend to the throne. Known for his extravagance and debauchery, he introduced a period of indulgence and artistic patronage. He commissioned numerous portraits, including John Michael Wright's "Portrait of Charles II" (c. 1671-1676), which depicts the monarch in military attire.
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