Karl XII (1682-1718), king of Sweden * David Klöcker Ehrenstråhl (1629-1698)

The portrait presents a young man in a formal setting, though the background is deliberately obscured, focusing attention entirely on the subject. He stands with one hand casually resting on his hip, a gesture that conveys a sense of relaxed authority rather than rigid formality. The pose suggests confidence and perhaps even a touch of arrogance.
Here we see an individual dressed in what appears to be a richly ornamented tunic or coat. The fabric is rendered in shades of yellow, highlighted by intricate gold embroidery along the sleeves and neckline. A decorative belt with a prominent buckle accentuates his waist, further emphasizing the richness of his attire. The details suggest a deliberate display of status and wealth.
The man’s face is pale, framed by an elaborate hairstyle typical of the period – voluminous curls that cascade around his head. His complexion contrasts sharply with the warm tones of his clothing, drawing attention to his features. A faint blush on his cheeks gives him a youthful appearance, though the eyes possess a certain intensity and seriousness. The gaze is directed towards the viewer, establishing a direct connection and potentially demanding respect or acknowledgement.
The artist’s use of light and shadow contributes significantly to the overall effect. The subject is illuminated from an unseen source, creating highlights on his face and clothing while leaving much of the background in deep shadow. This technique serves to isolate him from his surroundings, reinforcing his importance and emphasizing his individual presence.
Subtly, theres a sense of melancholy conveyed through the muted color palette and the subject’s expression. While the opulent attire suggests power and privilege, the shadowed background and the slightly downcast gaze hint at underlying complexities or perhaps even a foreshadowing of future hardship. The overall impression is one of a young man poised on the cusp of significant events, possessing both authority and vulnerability.