King Francis I of France
- Culture
- French
- Date
- c.1538
- Material
- Oil on panel
- made in
- Netherlands, Europe
- Classification
- Paintings
- Collection
- European Art to 1800
- Current Location
- On View, Gallery 222
- Dimensions
- 14 1/2 x 12 1/2 in. (36.8 x 31.8 cm)
- Credit Line
- Museum Purchase
- Rights
- Public Domain
- Object Number
- 15:1928
NOTES
King Francis I, who ruled France from 1515 to 1547, wears 16th-century French court costume in this portrait. His fur-trimmed coat embroidered with black pearls, plumed cap, slashed doublet (fitted jacket), and white shirt delicately pleated at the cuffs all reflect royal wealth. The band seen around his neck is probably part of a necklace. Although the king looks off to the side, his gesturing right hand suggests conversation. In his left hand he holds the bejeweled gold pommel of his sword, a symbol of his authority.
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