Karl XI (1655-1697), King of Sweden * David Klöcker Ehrenstråhl (1629-1698)

The portrait presents a young man in formal attire, positioned against a backdrop of heavy drapery. He stands with a slight turn of his body, suggesting movement and a degree of relaxed authority rather than rigid formality. The light falls predominantly on the front of his figure, highlighting the elaborate embroidery and texture of his garments.
Here we see a young man dressed in what appears to be a ceremonial robe or court attire. The fabric is richly ornamented with gold thread and intricate patterns, indicative of high status and wealth. A large, pleated ruff encircles his neck, adorned with ribbons that echo the colors present elsewhere in the composition. He holds a walking stick topped with an elaborate plume, further emphasizing his position as someone of importance.
The background is dominated by deep red curtains, which create a sense of enclosure and grandeur. To the left, on a small table draped with more fabric, rests a crown. Its presence reinforces the subject’s connection to royalty or leadership, though its placement slightly apart from him suggests it may be symbolic rather than actively worn.
The young mans expression is serious but not severe; there is a hint of youthful reserve in his gaze. The artist has rendered his features with considerable detail, capturing a sense of individual character. His hair is styled in the fashion of the period, neatly arranged and falling to his shoulders.
Subtleties within the composition suggest an intentional construction of image. The deliberate positioning of the crown, slightly removed from the subjects person, might imply that he is not yet fully assuming his power or that the painting aims to convey a sense of potential rather than established rule. The use of rich materials and elaborate details serves to underscore the subject’s elevated status within the social hierarchy. Overall, the work conveys an impression of youthful dignity and nascent authority, carefully crafted through formal portrait conventions.