Portret van Maria II Stuart 1838

Anthonie van Volkom created this portrait of Maria II Stuart, using printmaking techniques. The crown, resplendent atop her head, serves as the most immediate symbol of her sovereignty and divine right. This motif of the crown, and the orb, as emblems of power, stretches back through centuries, reappearing in various forms across different cultures. Consider its echoes in ancient Rome, where laurel wreaths signified victory and authority, or in the headdresses of Egyptian pharaohs, adorned with sacred symbols. The crown's evolution is a fascinating study in cultural memory. From simple bands of metal to elaborate, jewel-encrusted masterpieces, each iteration reflects the values and aspirations of its time. This portrait evokes a sense of continuity. Despite the shifting sands of history, these symbols endure, resurfacing in new contexts, and continuing to shape our understanding of power.