The Departure of Charles II of England from Scheveningen, June 2, 1660

About this artwork

depth 4.7 cm

Art Historical Context

Step into the dramatic moment of royal restoration with Hendrick de Meijer's *The Departure of Charles II of England from Scheveningen, June 2, 1660*. This oil on canvas painting, created between 1660 and 1683, captures the pivotal scene when the exiled Charles II set sail from the Dutch coast at Scheveningen—near The Hague—bound for England. After years in exile during Oliver Cromwell's Commonwealth, Charles was joyously invited back following the collapse of the Protectorate, marking the Restoration of the monarchy on his 30th birthday. Measuring 52 cm high by 75 cm wide, this intimate yet evocative work (with a depth of 4.7 cm) brings to life the bustling harbor, ships, and cheering crowds amid the North Sea's vastness. Painted in the Dutch Golden Age, de Meijer's composition reflects the era's mastery of oil techniques, likely emphasizing realistic light effects on water and sails, characteristic of marine and historical scenes by Dutch artists. Housed in Amsterdam's prestigious Rijksmuseum, it offers a window into Anglo-Dutch relations during a time of political upheaval and naval prowess. This artwork not only commemorates a turning point in English history but also highlights the Netherlands' role as a haven for European royalty, blending factual reportage with the era's seafaring spirit for an engaging glimpse into 17th-century drama.