Member-only story
The King’s First Official Portrait
The View From Here — 26 October 2026
Introduction
For two weeks only, this portrait of King Charles III in formal state attire was available to view in London at the Stern Pissarro Gallery art gallery. We went on the first day and had the place all to ourselves as no one else was visiting!
After the two-week viewing period, it will go to its new home in Canada at Government House, Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Why is it a first?
It’s the first painting of a reigning British monarch wearing official attire since Queen Elizabeth II had her portrait done way back in 1953. This is also the first portrait of King Charles III that includes the Orb and Sceptre with the Crown Imperial.
The artist
Dr Suan-Seh Foo is the artist, who was commissioned to paint this by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia on behalf of the Government of Nova Scotia. Dr Foo is a Toronto painter noted for his institutional portraits. He’s also a physician.
Originally from Singapore, he moved to Canada where he did his MD at the University of Toronto in 1990. Today, he directs a not-for-profit clinic treating addiction and mental health.
