Embleem voor veertigjarig regeringsjubileum koningin Wilhelmina der Nederlanden 1938

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet created this emblem for Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands’ fortieth jubilee using pen and brush in 1938. The design is a symbolic construction reflecting the cultural and political climate of the Netherlands at the time. The prominent ‘W’ refers to Wilhelmina, surrounded by symbols of Dutch identity and royalty, meant to project an image of stability and continuity during a time of increasing global uncertainty. The orange color is associated with the Dutch Royal family, and the crown signals the history of monarchy. To interpret this emblem fully, we need to consider the history of the Dutch monarchy, the country’s complex relationship with its colonial past, and the looming threat of war in Europe at the time. Investigating sources from the Dutch Royal Archives would allow us to see how Wilhelmina used symbols of nationhood to unite the country. The design highlights how art can serve to reinforce national identity and monarchical power.