James I.had employed a Fleming, and an inferior Dutchman, whom Charles retained in his service for a time.

Then he experimented with a second-rate Italian artist, who painted some ceilings which still exist at Hampton Court.

Rubens was too much in demand at other Courts for Charles to have his exclusive service, but the courtly Van Dyck was a painter after his own heart.

For the first time he had found an artist who satisfied his taste, and Van Dyck a Court in which he could paint distinction to his heart's content.

Charles would have squandered money on him if he had then had it to squander.