Portret van Karel II, koning van Napels - Lucas Kilian

A detailed seventeenth-century engraving by Lucas Kilian depicting Charles II of Naples in profile, framed within a formal cartouche.

This engraving by Lucas Kilian depicts Charles II of Naples, also known as Charles the Lame, in profile. Kilian, a prolific printmaker from Augsburg, was active during the early seventeenth century and produced numerous portraits of historical figures. The composition follows the conventions of the period, placing the subject within an oval frame that mimics a classical medallion. The surrounding cartouche includes heraldic shields and decorative elements, which provide a sense of formal authority to the portrait.

The technique demonstrates the precision characteristic of copperplate engraving. Kilian employs a system of hatching and cross-hatching to define the contours of the face and the texture of the royal garments. The lines are controlled and deliberate, creating a clear distinction between the subject and the background. The Latin inscription 'CAROLVS CLAVDVS' identifies the monarch, while the text above provides further historical context regarding his lineage. Below the portrait, a smaller cartouche contains the phrase 'HOC FATO', adding a layer of symbolic meaning to the work.

Such prints were often produced for historical compendiums or genealogical records, intended to document the appearance of rulers for a learned audience. The paper shows signs of age, consistent with its production in the early modern period. The print remains a clear example of the technical skill required for portraiture in the Baroque era, where the focus was on clarity of form and the accurate representation of status. The work is presented here as a high-quality reproduction, capturing the fine details of the original engraving process. It offers a glimpse into the methods used by printmakers to disseminate the likenesses of historical figures across Europe during the seventeenth century.