Art as a royal PR tool...
Charles II, c. 1676, by John Michael Wright.
On his 30th birthday, May 29th 1660, King Charles II entered London in triumph. His return marked the end of the Commonwealth, a decade-long experiment with republicanism following the civil war and the trial and execution of his father, Charles I, in 1649, Martin Oldham reports on The Economist's 1843magazine.com.
The restoration of the monarchy was met with widespread popular rejoicing, but Charles II knew his place on the throne was far from secure. The powerful men who had put him there could just as readily unseat him, Oldham wrote.
He was keenly aware of the need to project the right image of kingship: one that would reestablish the splendor of the monarchy, without alarming those subjects who feared a return to royal absolutism, Oldham added.
One of the means to achieve this was through art. The current exhibition at The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, “Charles II: Art & Power” examines the vital role the arts played in rebuilding the authority and legitimacy of the king. It explores the rebirth of princely grandeur and tradition, art as a token of diplomacy, the reestablishment of the royal art collection and the revival of courtly culture, he wrote.
For more on a wonderful exhibition which runs until May 13, 2018:
The Sea Triumph of Charles II, c. 1674, by Antonio Verrio.
Photos: 1843magazine.com.
Next time on The Allen Report:
Keeping up With the Kims: The Utah Blogger Who Watches North Korea.
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