Everyone is saying the same thing as King Charles's new portrait unveiled
The new portrait of King Charles by contemporary artist Jonathan Yeo has been revealed, but not everyone is convinced it's a work of art.
Lorraine says she's 'not a fan' of new portrait of King Charles
King Charles's first official portrait as monarch has left Royal Family fans online cold, with one even describing it as "disturbing" and "off-putting".
Artist Jonathan Yeo, known for his "highly figurative canvases and striking collages", was commissioned to paint the portrait, which was unveiled this week at Buckingham Palace.
However the public reaction has been somewhat negative, with one commentator writing on X: "Anybody else find the new portrait of King Charles III incredibly disturbing and off-putting?"
Another added: "King Charles new portrait is absolutely fecking hideous, looks like he is burning in hell", while a third said: "the official portrait of King Charles makes him look as though he's mostly known for a massacre of Communists in 1920 in Siberia."
One person commented: "I appreciate the attempt at something unconventional, but this new King Charles portrait looks like the poster for a truly nightmarish horror movie."
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The oil on canvas picture depicts His Majesty in his Welsh Guards uniform on a vivid red background, with a sword in his hand and a butterfly landing on his shoulder.
Even though it may not have been well-received on social media Mr Yeo did get the seal of approval from Queen Camilla, who reportedly told the artist upon seeing it: "Yes, you've got him."
Mr Yeo told the BBC: "If this was seen as treasonous, I could literally pay for it with my head, which would be an appropriate way for a portrait painter to die - to have their head removed!"
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The King himself also had a chance to take a look when the painting was still half-finished, with Mr Yeo saying: "He was initially mildly surprised by the strong colour but otherwise he seemed to be smiling approvingly."
The artist explained that he was aiming for something that would bring together traditional elements, such as the military uniform, with modern touches like the vibrant red and the butterfly.
He said: "In history of art, the butterfly symbolises metamorphosis and rebirth", adding that it also makes reference to the King's environmentalism, causes "he has championed most of his life and certainly long before they became a mainstream conversation".
The King had his own statement to make immediately after the portrait was unveiled, saying: "It is remarkable actually how it has turned out."
Mr Yeo also spoke a few words at the unveiling as he praised Charles: "People often say is there a secret to doing a good portrait and…that’s having an interesting subject to start with."
In response, His Majesty also joked that "it was nice to know he was a chrysalis" as he thanked the artist.
The portrait will go on public display at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from May 16 until June 14 and it will be displayed at Drapers' Hall from the end of August.