Kehinde Wiley’s Equestrian Portrait of King Philip II (Michael Jackson): classical kitsch

The American painter known for his naturalistic and progressive work depicts the King of Pop in the majestic glory of old masters

The man who would be king …

In Kehinde Wiley’s 2010 commissioned portrait of Michael Jackson, the King of Pop is presented in the guise of a monarch of yore, atop a steed, in deluxe armour.

Man in the mirror …

It is not intended as a reverent copy of the Rubens portrait referenced in the title. The original’s angel here becomes a pair of infant cherubs, there are flowers and Wiley’s horse has better hair.

Look again …

What’s most important is the switcheroo Wiley has worked on art history and the power structures enshrined in works by the old masters: a world ruled by rich, straight, white men.

Got your money …

It’s brazenly kitsch and it’s meant to be. Wiley’s glittering career has seen him depict street-cast black men, hip-hop stars and Barack Obama in this revisionist style.

Double trouble …

However, his work has an intentionally troubling edge. His body-beautiful models are both celebrated and uncomfortably objectified.

Included in Michael Jackson: On the Wall, National Portrait Gallery, WC2, to 21 October

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