Charles II's cavalcade through the City of London, 22 April 1661

This painting by the Flemish artist, Dirck Stoop,(c.1616-86) depicts Charles II's entry into the City of London on 22 April 1661, the day before his Coronation, as part of the traditional procession between the Tower of London and Westminster.

The procession winds through the four huge triumphal arches which mark the route within City territory. The formal ceremonial robes worn by the King, the Officers of State and other dignitaries are meticulously recorded. Other costumes show the elaborate fashion of petticoat breeches and large periwigs which were introduced by the court after 1660.

Diarist Samuel Pepys watched the cavalcade from a room booked for the occasion. ‘It is impossible’ he wrote, ‘to relate the glory of this day, expressed in the clothes of them that rid, and their horses and horse’s clothes. Embroidery and diamonds were ordinary among them.’

It is not known who commissioned this work. Stoop was a painter and etcher who specialised in horse pictures. The official painter to the court of Portugal, he came to England in 1662 and may have remained in London until 1665. A key to the painting is also in the Museum's collection.