Portrait of King Charles IX of France Francois Clouet (1510-1572)

The drawing presents a male figure in three-quarter view, occupying nearly the entire frame. He is depicted against a plain, light background that allows for a focus on his features and attire. The artist has rendered him with meticulous detail, utilizing cross-hatching and subtle shading to create a sense of volume and texture.
The man’s face displays an expression that appears somewhat detached, perhaps even melancholic. His gaze is directed slightly off-center, avoiding direct engagement with the viewer. A delicate mustache and neatly trimmed beard frame his face, contributing to an impression of refinement and controlled emotion. The rendering of the eyes suggests a certain introspection or weariness.
He wears elaborate clothing indicative of high status. A complex headdress, seemingly constructed from layers of fabric, sits atop his head, its folds carefully delineated with fine lines. Around his neck is a ruff, intricately patterned and voluminous, demonstrating considerable expense and artistry in its creation. The garment beneath the ruff appears to be similarly detailed, suggesting a luxurious material and skilled craftsmanship.
The artist’s use of light and shadow emphasizes the textures of the fabrics and the contours of the face, creating a sense of realism despite the drawings monochromatic nature. A handwritten inscription is visible in the upper right corner, providing a date – “1569” – and what appears to be a name: le roi Charles/ix. This suggests that the subject is a reigning monarch.
Subtly, the composition conveys an aura of authority tempered by introspection. The plain background serves to isolate the figure, highlighting his position as someone set apart from ordinary life. The careful rendering and elaborate attire underscore his elevated status, while the expression on his face hints at the burdens and complexities inherent in leadership. The overall effect is one of dignified restraint, suggesting a man conscious of his role and perhaps burdened by its responsibilities.