King Charles’ portrait reigns over social media for a ‘creepy’ reason

In the ever-evolving landscape of public opinion, images of public figures often spark widespread discussion and debate.

Recently, a portrait of a prominent figure has captivated social media, stirring both admiration and controversy.

This portrait has ignited a heated conversation, with many expressing strong reactions to its depiction.


The unveiling of King Charles' first official portrait since his coronation sparked a whirlwind of reactions across social media, with many users finding the depiction unsettling and 'disturbing'.

The artwork, crafted by renowned artist Jonathan Yeo, breaks away from conventional royal portraiture.

It presents the monarch amidst a vivid backdrop of red and orange hues, accompanied by a butterfly perched on his shoulder.


photo.png
King Charles unveiled his first official portrait post-coronation, painted by Jonathan Yeo. Credits: Instagram / @jonathanyeo


The portrait, which was originally commissioned in 2020 to commemorate King Charles' 50 years of service to The Drapers’ Company, a charitable institution, was revealed at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, May 14, and will be etched in the annals of royal history.

Yeo had the honour of four sittings with the King, the first of which occurred while he was still the Prince of Wales, with the final sitting taking place in November 2023 at Clarence House.


Dressed in the uniform of the Welsh Guards, a division he has been associated with since 1975 when he was appointed Regimental Colonel, the portrait captured a significant moment in time for the King.

‘It was a privilege and pleasure to have been commissioned by The Drapers’ Company to paint this portrait of His Majesty the King, the first to be unveiled since his coronation,’ Yeo stated.

‘When I started this project, His Majesty…was still His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and, much like the butterfly I’ve painted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has evolved as the subject’s role in our public life has transformed.’

‘I do my best to capture the life experiences etched into any individual sitter’s face. In this case, my aim was also to make reference to the traditions of royal portraiture but in a way that reflects a 21st-century monarchy and, above all else, to communicate the subject’s deep humanity.’

‘I’m unimaginably grateful for the opportunity to capture such an extraordinary and unique person, especially at the historic moment of becoming King,’ he added.


Despite the artist's noble intentions, the portrait's reception on social media was mixed, with some users finding the colour palette particularly ‘creepy’.

Someone commented that the King must have asked the artist to ‘paint me in a portal to hell’.

‘I would have loved this if it was any other colour than red. He really captured the essence of him in the face but the harshness of the red doesn’t match the softness of his expression,’ another pointed out.

‘Is this a joke or for real?’ a third asked.

‘The bloody monarch,’ someone else said.

Others were more blunt, labelling the artwork as ‘creepy’, ‘a little disturbing’, and likening it to ‘bathing in blood’.

The portrait, destined to adorn the walls of London's Drapers’ Hall, certainly captured the public's attention, igniting conversations about the role of modern art in royal representation and the subjective nature of aesthetic appreciation.


After causing a stir with the release of a controversial portrait, King Charles once again captured the public's attention, this time with a regal makeover to Australian currency.

The disturbing portrayal of the King sparked widespread discussion online, drawing both criticism and fascination.

Now, with the unveiling of a new coin featuring King Charles, Australians are getting a closer look at the monarch's representation in popular culture.

This latest development offers a glimpse into how the King's image is being portrayed across various mediums, from art to currency.
Key Takeaways
  • King Charles revealed his first official portrait since his coronation in 2023, which many are calling ‘disturbing’.
  • Jonathan Yeo's portrait featured red and orange shades and a butterfly on the King's shoulder.
  • The painting was originally commissioned to celebrate the former Prince of Wales' 50 years with The Drapers’ Company.
  • The artwork was met with strong reactions on social media, with comments describing it as ‘creepy’ and like ‘a portal to hell’.
  • The portrait will be displayed in London’s Drapers’ Hall.
What are your thoughts on this latest addition to the royal gallery? Does it strike you as a bold step into modernity, or does it cross the line into the realm of the macabre? Share your thoughts and opinions with us in the comments below!
 
Sponsored
Apart from disliking the red I think the hands are the creepiest ...... huge ugly things, bigger than his head!
 
Brilliant portrait capturing his expression to the tee. The artist might've wanted the red to express his strength of character and the butterfly his closeness to nature. Who knows? But certainly drawing attention and thought-provoking as a portrait should do and a compliment to the subject.
 
Maybe this is appropriate as he has the death of Diana on his hands and she would have bled to death from that car accident.
The Scarlett man as a true SINNER!!!!
 
  • Like
Reactions: Nichola
When I saw it on TV yesterday, I couldn't believe it!
It looks only partly finished, unclear and his facial expression with slanted eyebrows appears as if he is in pain or disappointed (showing his true feelings about the ugly portrait overwhelmed in red blood).
Truly disgusting!
And... what's with the bloody butterfly???
I think the artist had too much red wine and spilled it on the canvas!
My thoughts perzacerly loks bloody awful.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Helenmac
Excellent. I trust that KCIII shares the sense of humour of the artist. It makes a change from the dull sort of artistry usually used for Kings and Queens and I see no wretched corgis in it. Isn't the Welsh Guards a Regiment and not a Division; or is it the Welch Guards?
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×