The artwork “Charles I in Three Positions” is an oil on canvas painting by Anthony van Dyck, which dates back to the period between 1635 and 1636. This Baroque portrait measures 84.4 x 99.4 cm and is part of the Royal Collection housed at Buckingham Palace in London, UK.
The painting is a triple portrait showcasing King Charles I from three different angles: left, front, and right profiles. The work captures the king’s distinctive features and royal demeanor, with each pose providing a different perspective of his visage. The king is dressed in elegant attire that denotes his status, with intricate lace at the collar and cuffs, and a prominent blue sash across his chest which is part of the Order of the Garter regalia.
Van Dyck’s skill in rendering the textures of fabric and flesh, as well as capturing the individuality of the sitter, is evident in this painting. His use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensional quality of the figure. The multiple views of Charles I may have been intended for use by the sculptor Bernini, who was commissioned to create a bust of Charles I. This painting is thus not only a regal portrait but also a practical tool for artists at the time.
