Ehrenstrahl’s portrait of Charles XI in a simple Caroline uniform is in marked contrast to the magnificent frame. The symbolism of the latter does interact with the painting, however, by hinting at the king’s virtues, which are to be trum- peted around the world. The lion skin is associated with Hercules and represents strength. There are also palm fronds, laurels and a royal crown. The frame was designed by the architect Nicodemus Tessin the Younger and is believed to have been carved by the court sculptor Burchardt Precht.