Portret van Willem III, prins van Oranje 1670 - 1749

This portrait of Willem III, Prince of Orange, by an anonymous artist, showcases the sartorial language of power. His lavish wig, an emblem of status, cascades around his shoulders, framing a face of determined resolve. Consider how such displays of power echo through history. The elaborate hairstyles and attire of monarchs across Europe, from Louis XIV to Elizabeth I, served a similar purpose: to project an image of unassailable authority. This visual vocabulary transcends mere fashion, tapping into collective notions of leadership and control. But how have these symbols changed over time? In our modern era, the trappings of power are often more subtle, expressed through coded language. Yet, the underlying impulse remains: to assert dominance and inspire awe, a primal urge that resonates deep within the human psyche. The Prince’s portrait is a compelling example of how we continue to grapple with symbols of authority, interpreting and reimagining them.