King James Ii Of England Collection
"King James II of England: A Controversial Monarch and His Reign" King James II of England, also known as James VII of Scotland and Jacques II Roy d'Angleterre
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"King James II of England: A Controversial Monarch and His Reign" King James II of England, also known as James VII of Scotland and Jacques II Roy d'Angleterre, was a monarch whose reign was marked by both triumphs and controversies. In the famous painting "The Coronation Dinner of James II in Westminster Hall, 1685, " we catch a glimpse of the grandeur surrounding his ascension to the throne. Dressed in a wig, lace kerchief, and adorned with a chain featuring St. George and the dragon, King James II exudes regal authority. The accompanying vignette depicts a Roman emperor losing his crown to a soldier—a symbolic representation perhaps hinting at the challenges that awaited him during his rule. At his side throughout this tumultuous journey was Anne Hyde, Duchess of York—his devoted wife. In an exquisite copperplate engraving by Charles Simonneau after Adriaen van der Werff's work, we see her elegance portrayed through her decollete dress adorned with pearls. Her beauty complemented King James II's own royal presence. Another significant figure in King James II's life was Mary of Modena—an influential queen consort whose portrait from c. 1673 showcases her gracefulness captured by Nicholas Dixon. As one delves into these engravings depicting their majesties' countenance, it becomes evident that they were not just rulers but individuals who left an indelible mark on history. However, controversy loomed over King James II's reign due to religious tensions and political maneuverings. Despite attempts to consolidate power through engravings like "Portrait of King James II of England, " dissenters emerged questioning his policies and decisions. Yet amidst all this turmoil emerges glimpses into personal moments such as "James Duke of York" painted by Wenceslaus Hollar—a tender portrayal revealing another facet behind the king's public image. Intriguingly, the artwork "Paye qui Tombe.