The portrait showcases His Majesty adorned in the Welsh Guards uniform, a position he assumed as the Regimental Colonel in 1975.
Careful consideration was given to the canvas size, which is approximately 8 1/2 by 6 1/2 feet framed, to harmonize with the architectural setting of Drapers’ Hall and complement the surrounding artworks.
Jonathan Yeo had four sessions with His Majesty, commencing in June 2021 when he was the Prince of Wales at Highgrove, and conducting subsequent sittings at Clarence House.
The final sitting occurred in November 2023 at Clarence House.
Yeo also utilized drawings and photographs he captured of His Majesty to continue painting the portrait in his London studio between sessions.
Reflecting on the experience of painting The King, Yeo remarked:
“When I embarked on this project, His Majesty The King held the title of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and much like the butterfly delicately depicted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has evolved alongside the subject's changing role in our public sphere.
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At the unveiling, The King and Queen were greeted by The Master of The Drapers’ Company, Tom Harris, and Past Master, William Charnley.
They were later joined by Jonathan Yeo, who said a few words following the portrait's unveiling.
Yeo expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to capture a remarkable and distinctive individual, especially during the significant moment of ascending to the throne.
The attendees at the unveiling included members of the Drapers’ Company, students and staff from the Drapers’ Academy, Welsh Guards, and Jonathan Yeo's family.
For a month starting from May 16th to June 14th, the portrait will be exhibited at the Philip Mould Gallery in London.
Subsequently, it is anticipated to be displayed at Drapers’ Hall by the end of August.
Prior to this commission, Yeo had also created portraits of The Duchess of Cornwall (now The Queen) and the late Duke of Edinburgh.