The artwork, titled “Portrait of King William IV (1765-1837),” was masterfully executed by the artist David Wilkie in the year 1837. Created using oil on canvas, it adheres to the principles of the Romanticism movement and falls within the portrait genre. The dimensions of the artwork are 63.5 x 76.2 cm.
The composition features King William IV, who is prominently positioned against a subtly muted background that accentuates the regal subject of the portrait. The king is depicted with a dignified presence, his visage rendered with great detail and a palpable sense of character. His attire is formal, with a dark coat and an insignia adorning his chest, indicating his royal status. The choice of muted colors and gentle lighting further emphasizes the solemnity and significance of the subject, in line with the Romanticism art movement’s focus on individualism and emotion. The artist’s brushwork is both meticulous and expressive, capturing the essence of the king with a balance of realism and artistic interpretation.
