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This portrait of Prince Rupert (1619–1682), count palatine of the Rhine, and nephew of Charles I, exists in several different versions, all of which emerged from Peter Lely’s studio. The original portrait was one of thirteen “Flagmen,” a set of portraits of the officers who served under the command of James, Duke of York (the future James II), when he was Lord High Admiral during the Second Anglo-Dutch War (1665–67). Prince Rupert’s costume is classically inspired, and the central fluted column that stands behind him not only emphasizes the classical scheme but likens Rupert to a pillar, essential for the support of the state. Valiant and impetuous, Rupert came to England as a cavalry commander for his uncle in the Civil War and settled in England permanently when his cousin Charles II was restored to the throne in 1660. He was also an amateur artist and is credited with introducing mezzotint printmaking to England. Gallery label for installation of YCBA collection, 2016

This haughty portrayal of Prince Rupert (1619-1682), count palatine of the Rhine and first cousin of Charles II-Rupert's mother, Elizabeth of Bohemia(1596-1662), was the sister of Charles I (1600-1649)- is one of several studio replicas of Lely's original in the Royal Collection at Windsor. That picture belongs to a set of thirteen portraits produced for Charles II's younger brother James II (1633-1701), when he was Duke of York and Lord High Admiral of England. The series, known as the "Flagmen," represent the officers who served under James's command on board the Royal Charles at the Battle of Lowestoft (June 1665), which began the so-called Second Dutch War.

Gallery label for installation of YCBA collection, 2005