Portret van George IV, prins van Wales 1787 - 1828

This is Ludwig Gottlieb Portman’s print of George IV as Prince of Wales, made with etching around the turn of the 19th century. It captures a moment of transition in British society, amid evolving ideas about monarchy and representation. Consider the weight of expectation placed on George. As Prince, he was expected to embody both tradition and modernity, navigating a complex web of familial duty, societal norms, and personal desires. Portman’s print offers a glimpse into the construction of royal identity and the performance it entailed. The very act of creating and circulating this image speaks volumes. Prints like these played a crucial role in shaping public perception, allowing for a democratization of the royal image while reinforcing existing hierarchies. The portrait raises questions of power, image, and the narratives we construct around those in positions of authority.