Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales

Cornelis Boel

National Gallery of Art

The image is an engraved portrait of Henry, Prince of Wales, depicted in an oval frame with only the head and part of the shoulders visible. He is positioned facing forward with a composed expression, featuring prominent eyes, a straight nose, and a stoic mouth. His hair is styled away from his face, curled and voluminous at the top. The prince is attired in a high, elaborate lace collar characteristic of the period, and his clothing suggests armor, denoting nobility. Surrounding the oval frame are allegorical figures; a helmeted woman in armor holding a spear stands to the left. On the right, another draped female figure holds a staff. Above the portrait, two cherubs hold a laurel wreath and a shield adorned with three feathers, while a drapery-like canopy tops the composition. The backdrop and elements of the border contribute to the regal atmosphere.