English: De Ruyter was the highly revered naval hero in command of the Dutch fleet during the Second Anglo-Dutch War (1664–7). As such he was the most celebrated of Dutch seamen and was thought to be the most able commander of the seventeenth century. In 1667, the same year as the production of this portrait, he achieved a striking success when he invaded the Medway. The high esteem in which he was held is evinced in this majestic official portrait. This painting is one of a series of six near-identical state portraits of the eminent Lieutenant-Admiral, Michiel de Ruyter produced by Ferdinand Bol between 1667 and 1669. These works were commissioned by the governors of regional Admiralties to celebrate the Dutch victory at the Four Days Battle of 1666 under de Ruyter's command. De Ruyter’s hero status made him a powerful man. In the portrait he is richly dressed and holding his commander’s baton. Around his neck he is wearing the Order of St Michael, awarded to him by the King of France.