Artwork Information

Louise de Kéroualle was dispatched to England by Louis XIV to be the mistress of King Charles II. The painting has ironic references, not least the King Charles spaniel, as traditionally lap dogs symbolised faithfulness and chastity. The gesture of an outstretched hand was often used in marriage portraits, and may refer to the mock ceremony which took place between Louise and the King on her arrival in England in early October 1671. Although the symbolism is English, the overall picture has the formality of a French court painting.