408 - Unknown (17th century), Charles II in a laurel wreath, copper engraving

Unknown (17th century), Charles II in a laurel wreath, copper engraving Unknown (17th century): Portrait of Charles II of England—King in armor, 17th century, copper engraving Technique: Copper engraving on paper Inscription: At the bottom of the printing plate: "CAROLVS SECVNDVS DEI GRATIA MAGNAE BRITANNIAE FRANCIAE ET HIBERNIAE REX FIDEI DEFENSOR". Date: 17th century Description: A half-length portrait of Charles II (1630–1685), King of England, Scotland, and Ireland, depicted in three-quarter profile to the right. The monarch wears a breastplate with medal insignia and a lace scarf, framed within an elaborately engraved laurel wreath in an oval shape bearing the banderole motto “Dieu et mon droit.” The print is a typical example of the ruler’s iconography from the Stuart period, with a strong representative character, and serves both to legitimize the dynasty and to foster cultic veneration. Probably from a series of prints based on a contemporary painting. Person: King Charles II, England, Scotland, Ireland (1630–1685) Keywords: Charles II; Stuart dynasty; English king; Copper engraving; Baroque portrait of a ruler; 17th century; Monarch’s portrait; Fidei Defensor; 17th-century coronation insignia; Monarch portrait; Fidei Defensor; Laurel wreath framing; Order insignia; English history; Stuart Restoration; Coronation iconography; Military depiction; Monarch iconography; Britain; Baroque prints; Medal armor; Art trade; Collector’s prints; Dynastic representation; 17th century; Baroque; Portraits; United Kingdom; Size: Paper: 37.8 cm x 23.2 cm (14.9 x 9.1 in), Plate: 19.8 cm x 15.3 cm (7.8 x 6 in), Image: 19.2 cm x 15.1 cm (7.6 x 5.9 in) Condition: In fairly good condition. The sheet shows significant age-related browning and marginal defects, particularly in the upper and lower areas (small tears, bumped corners). The central image is in good condition; the copper engraving has a strong impression and fine line etching. Overall, it is in good condition for its age and has both collectible and historical value.