This picture of Gustav III is a variation on Krafft’s portrait from 1791, which was sent to Stanisław II Augustus of Poland. This was the third time in the artist’s career that he painted the king’s portrait. Here, Gustav III is wearing the lesser habit of the Royal Order of the Seraphim. Purple silk velvet contrasts with gold trimmings, and the cut follows that of the new Swedish national costume, which was introduced by the king in 1778.