The canvas, sized at around 8 1/2 by 6 1/2 feet framed, was thoughtfully chosen to harmonize with Drapers’ Hall's architecture and the context of the adjacent paintings where it will be displayed.
Jonathan Yeo had the privilege of four sessions with The King, commencing the first sitting when His Majesty was the Prince of Wales in June 2021 at Highgrove and later 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 progress on the portrait in his London studio between the sittings.
Reflecting on the experience of painting The King, Yeo remarked, "When I initiated this project, His Majesty The King held the title of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, and much like the butterfly I've depicted hovering over his shoulder, this portrait has developed as the subject's role in our public life has evolved.
" The unveiling ceremony saw The King and Queen in attendance, greeted upon arrival by The Master of The Drapers’ Company, Tom Harris, and Past Master, William Charnley.
They were later joined by Jonathan Yeo, who shared a few words after His Majesty revealed the portrait.
Yeo expressed his gratitude for the chance to capture such an exceptional and distinctive individual, particularly at the historic juncture of assuming the role of King.
Among the guests were members of the Drapers’ Company, students, and faculty from the Drapers’ Academy, Welsh Guards, and Jonathan Yeo’s family.
The portrait is slated to be publicly exhibited for a month at the Philip Mould Gallery in London from the 16th of May until the 14th of June.
Subsequently, the artwork is set to find its place at Drapers’ Hall by the end of August.
This portrait isn't Yeo's first capturing Royal likeness, having previously created portraits of The Duchess of Cornwall (now The Queen) and the late Duke of Edinburgh.