The Painter of the Commonwealth Robert Walker lived through a period of profound change in England. While his early years remain hidden from view, his presence becomes clear during the years of the Commonwealth. He worked as the chief painter for the parliamentary party between 1649 and 1658. His brush captured the faces of those who held power when the monarchy was set aside. Many of these portraits now reside in the National Portrait Gallery in London. His hand moved with a style that felt familiar to those accustomed to the courtly elegance of Van Dyck. Yet, there is a distinction in his w…