James II. James II and VII was King of England and Ireland as James II and King of Scotland as James VII, from 6 February 1685 until he was deposed in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.
he is portrayed in art with a focus on his regal bearing and military background, often reflecting both his authority and the controversies surrounding his reign. In formal portraits, such as those by Sir Godfrey Kneller, James is depicted in royal robes with the crown and scepter, emphasizing his legitimate kingship and the grandeur of the monarchy.
These portraits often show him wearing armor, underscoring his military experience and his role as a commander, especially during his time as Duke of York before becoming king. Frequently he has a solemn expression, reflecting the gravity of his reign, marked by religious and political tensions that eventually led to his deposition in the Glorious Revolution of 1688.
Some later portraits or allegorical artworks emphasize his Catholic faith and exile, particularly after his overthrow, portraying him either sympathetically as a martyr or critically as a failed ruler. His representation often evokes a complex mix of authority, conflict, and the historical significance of his short and tumultuous reign.
The last Roman Catholic monarch of England, Scotland and Ireland, his reign is now remembered primarily for struggles over religious tolerance. However, it also inv