Karl XI (1655-1697), King of Sweden Drottning Ulrika Eleonora den äldre (1680-1693)

The portrait presents a male figure in profile, framed within an oval gilded border. The subjects gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of quiet observation and perhaps restrained authority. He appears relatively young, with a complexion rendered in muted tones that suggest a certain solemnity or seriousness.
Here we see a head of reddish-brown hair styled in loose curls, which fall across his forehead and shoulders. The artist has employed subtle shading to create the illusion of volume and texture within the hair, though it lacks elaborate ornamentation. A high collar, likely part of military attire, is visible around his neck, hinting at a position of power or responsibility. The garment beneath appears to be a dark-colored tunic or coat, its details obscured by shadow.
The lighting in this painting is carefully controlled; it illuminates the face and upper body while leaving much of the background in deep obscurity. This concentrated light draws attention directly to the subject’s features – his nose, lips, and particularly his eyes – which are rendered with a degree of realism that suggests an attempt at psychological insight rather than mere physical representation.
The overall effect is one of dignified restraint. The lack of overt displays of wealth or power – no jewels, elaborate clothing, or symbolic props – suggests a deliberate effort to portray the subject as someone grounded and perhaps even austere. This could be interpreted as a conscious rejection of ostentation, aligning with ideals of virtuous leadership prevalent in certain historical periods.
The oval format itself contributes to this sense of contained dignity; it creates a formal, almost intimate space for the portrait, emphasizing the individual rather than placing him within a broader narrative or landscape. The dark background further isolates the figure, reinforcing his individuality and suggesting a contemplative nature.