Wednesday 28 September 2022 06:17 PM First ever portrait of King Charles as Prince of Wales could be seen for first ... trends now

A long-lost portrait of King Charles III, which is the first of him as Prince of Wales, may see the light of day for the first time in a generation - to the delight of Royal fans and its renowned artist.

The first commissioned painting of the new King, as a young Prince of Wales at the age of 21, was unveiled to a great fanfare in Cardiff in 1970.

But the historic portrait has been held in storage vaults away from the public gaze for 24 years, following renovation works in Cardiff City Hall.

Now, a review into royal art in the Welsh capital is set to be held after the death of the Queen, with artist David Griffiths suggesting now is an 'appropriate' time to show the historic work.

Respected portrait artist Mr Griffiths said: 'For whatever reason, the portrait has been in storage at The City Hall for decades.

'It would be fascinating to see it again as it certainly holds a place in history and I feel now would be an appropriate time for it to be seen again in public.'

Welshman Mr Griffiths, based in Penylan, had been invited by representatives of Welsh industry and commerce to portray the 21-year-old Prince as a gift to the City of Cardiff.

In a break from tradition, the then Lord Mayor, Alderman Lincoln Hallinan, asked that he be included in the portrait - and also to have coats of arms incorporated into the design.

The first sitting with the Prince took place at Buckingham Palace in November 1969, with a final one on the eve of the Prince's departure for Australia and New Zealand in 1970.

The 8ft by 5ft

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