CLOUET, François
(b. ca. 1510, Tours, d. 1572, Paris)

Portrait of Henri II

c. 1547
Oil on canvas, 192 x 105 cm
Galleria Palatina (Palazzo Pitti), Florence

François Clouet, the hereditary royal painter made this portrait shortly after Henri ascended the French throne. His informal stance, fashionably prominent codpiece, and shapely legs emphasize courtly qualities over military qualifications.