Episode Details

Charles I's execution was unprecedented and shocking. He staked everything on his divine right to rule – the same concept that inspired his spectacular Rubens ceiling at the Banqueting House, Whitehall Palace. Ironically, this glorification of monarchy was one of the King's last sights, before he died on the scaffold.  

In this episode, curators Minette Butler and Dr Alden Gregory explore this fascinating story of a 'traitor' king, under the Rubens ceiling where he spent his final moments. 

How did Charles I come to be executed by his own subjects? Did he reflect on his reign as he passed underneath these heavenly images? And what remains of his legacy? 

See the Rubens ceiling in high definition on Google Arts & Culture.