Portret van Maria II Stuart 1688 - 1724

Curator: Standing before us, we have "Portret van Maria II Stuart," dating from 1688 to 1724, by Jacob Gole. It's an engraving, a print from the Baroque era, currently held here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: She seems caught in a fleeting moment, like she's about to turn and whisper a secret. There's a weight to the crown, a solemn stillness in her gaze. And this delicate etching somehow captures both her regal bearing and a hint of vulnerability. Curator: Indeed. The oval composition constrains the figure, drawing the eye to her elaborate garments and jewels. The inscription that encircles her acts as both frame and pronouncement, cementing her status as Queen. We see symbols of power in her hand; the orb and crown reference majesty. Editor: But that's just it, isn't it? Symbols. The orb looks almost…toy-like. It makes you wonder what she felt about these grand pronouncements. Was she just playing a role? Look at the slight furrow of her brow, a whisper of dissent? The baroque detail doesn’t disguise a complex woman here. Curator: One could argue the intricacy is not deceptive but rather, indicative of the era's fascination with elaborate display, which mirrors the baroque period of tension and ornamentation. Gole uses the engraving technique with precision to bring forth layers of detail, a meticulous labor reflective of the importance associated with royal portraiture. Editor: Maybe. Or perhaps Gole wanted to immortalize not just a Queen, but a human being momentarily burdened by such responsibility. Look at the way the light falls, shadows and illuminates her expression. There's so much story hidden in what isn't explicit. As for display, the work feels rather restrained. Almost personal, which makes sense given its scale. Curator: You know, these small things can make such a huge difference when it comes to conveying emotion. In many ways, I think it is that contrast between a powerful monarch and a fragile person that helps create this lasting, memorable image. Editor: Exactly! Makes one imagine conversations that would be had about it, not just art critique. What gossip followed her around about a lover for example. Curator: An intriguing suggestion to linger with. We invite visitors to explore this piece further.