The Return of the Fleet with Charles I (1600-1649), when Prince of Wales in 1623 c.1623-30
Oil on canvas | 147.5 x 310.7 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 406193
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In 1623, when still Prince of Wales, Charles I made an unannounced visit to Madrid to seek the hand in marriage of the King of Spain's daughter, the Infanta Maria. He returned later in the year empty-handed. This painting is intended to look on the bright side of this episode by celebrating the Prince's safe return. The fleet has just reached Portsmouth, which they did on the 5 october 1623. The fort on the right fires a welcome salute. The 'Prince Royal' leads, flying the Royal Standard, followed by other named ships. Another version of this composition is at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich. The first record of this painting, at Oatlands Palace, attributes it to 'young Froome'. If this is correct, it could refer to Hendrick's son, Cornelis Vroom (1591-1661), only now known as a landscape painter, or possibly Frederick Vroom (d. 1667), who did paint seascapes though none survive.
Provenance
In the collection of Charles I; sold from the King's Galleries at Oatlands for £15 to Stone and others on 23 October 1651 (no 36); recovered at the Restoration and listed in the Backstairs Room at Hampton Court in 1666 (no 176)
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Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Oil on canvas
Measurements
147.5 x 310.7 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external)
164.2 x 328.2 x 5.5 cm (frame, external)
Other number(s)