First ever exhibition in Scotland dedicated to Charles II's art collection goes on display

Highlights of the magnificent art collection assembled by Charles II following the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 have gone on display in a new exhibition on view at The Queen’s Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse. Exploring the rich world of Charles II’s court and the role of the arts in the re-establishment of the Stuart monarchy, Charles II: Art & Power includes more than 100 works of art from the Royal Collection, the majority of which are on display in Scotland for the first time. On 29 May 1660, his 30th birthday, Charles II made his triumphant return to London, ending more than a decade of Republican rule following the execution of his father Charles I in 1649. Over the 25 years that followed, the court of Charles II became the centre for the patronage of leading artists and the collecting of great works of art, which served to decorate the royal apartments, glorify the restored monarchy and reinforce the position of Charles II as the rightful King. One of the first acts of