Royal watchers were quick to notice what some have described as a provocative detail in King Charles’s newly unveiled Coronation portrait, now on display at the National Gallery.
The King and Queen recently revealed their official full-length state portraits, which will be on public view for the next six weeks.
The artworks, painted by renowned artists Peter Kuhfeld (for the King) and Paul S. Benney (for the Queen), were met with praise from the royals themselves. King Charles complimented his portrait as a “wonderful composition,” while Queen Camilla expressed delight with hers, saying, “I just love it.” But keen-eyed fans spotted something curious in Charles’s portrait that sparked online chatter.
As reported by Joe, some social media users jokingly questioned an object seen draped over the King’s shoulder.
One person wrote, “Is that a bra thrown on his shoulder?” while another echoed, “I thought he had a bra draped over his shoulder?”
In contrast, many felt that Queen Camilla’s portrait was more true to life. “Beautiful paintings,” one fan commented. “In my opinion, the Queen’s painting almost looks like a photograph and speaks to me more than the King’s.” Another added, “The Queen’s one is lovely — the King’s not so much, hmm.”
Others appreciated the contrasting styles, noting that despite the differences, both portraits were impressive.
“Stunning portraits. Very different execution for each, but I think both are equally beautiful,” one viewer observed.
These portraits continue a longstanding tradition of commemorating royal coronations in art, a practice dating back centuries. The earliest surviving example is a portrait of James VI and I by Paul van Somer, which still hangs in Windsor Castle.
Peter Kuhfeld, a longtime acquaintance of the King for over 40 years, revealed that the portrait took more than 18 months to complete following initial sessions at Windsor Castle and St. James’s Palace.
In the painting, King Charles is depicted in his naval uniform adorned with medals and draped in the Robe of State, which he wore during the first part of the coronation ceremony. The Imperial State Crown is placed beside him, symbolizing royal tradition. Queen Camilla, meanwhile, is shown in her coronation gown, completing the regal pair of portraits.
