Penning met het portret van Hendrik II 1719

This is a print made in 1719 by Bernard Picart, depicting a medal with the portrait of Henry II of France. The prominent symbol is the crown, emblem of royal authority, historically linked to divine right, signifying a ruler's power legitimized from a higher, sacred source. Crowns recur throughout history, from ancient Egyptian headdresses to papal tiaras, each culture imbuing them with unique meanings, yet consistently representing power and authority. Here, the crown sits upon Henry's head, but it is more than a marker of sovereignty; it embodies collective memory, echoing through time, evoking feelings tied to leadership. The image conveys psychological dimensions, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with symbols of power and tradition. This cyclical motif has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings across historical contexts.