Artwork Information

Seen here wearing the tinsel star of the Order of the

Garter, Charles II was a notorious womaniser and

spendthrift. His popularity on returning to England soon

gave way to disillusionment with his glamorous and

debauched court.

Hollar received the title of ‘His Majesty’s Scenographer

or Designer of Prospects’ from the king in 1666, but

the office came with no salary. The artist eventually

petitioned the king for a role in the embassy to Tangier,

and Charles II obliged by sending Hollar on his last

adventure.