Portret van Willem II, koning der Nederlanden 1831

Editor: We're looking at "Portret van Willem II, koning der Nederlanden," from 1831, by Roelof van der Meulen, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum. It's an engraving. My first thought is how… serious it is! The detail in the uniform is amazing, but the overall effect feels very formal. What strikes you most about this work? Curator: What strikes me is the performance of power, darling. Look at the crispness of the lines attempting to define the figure as if chiseled from stone; and, then, this vulnerable man gazes outward through it all! There's such a stark contrast there, isn’t there? The uniform—so much metallic embroidery and pomp, almost bursting with the trappings of military might… but does it successfully mask the tender, somewhat melancholy expression in Willem II's eyes? Editor: I see what you mean! It's almost like he's trying to appear strong but there's a hint of sadness. Do you think that was intentional? Curator: Oh, intentions are such slippery eels! Perhaps Van der Meulen sought to immortalize a heroic leader, as commissioned; or perhaps something more complicated leaked onto the printing plate. Those heavy epaulettes… does their density feel oppressive, or protective? He must have felt exposed by all of that expectation. Editor: That makes me see the portrait completely differently. It's more than just a depiction of a king, it’s a reflection on the burden of leadership. Curator: Precisely! A costume of authority struggling to contain humanity… Makes you wonder what was brewing underneath those buttons and braided cords. Don't you think? Editor: Absolutely. Thanks, I wouldn’t have noticed otherwise!