Staande koning Possibly 1654 - 1656

Gesina ter Borch rendered this ‘Standing King’ in ink and watercolour. The regal figure, with his crown and spear, stands assertively amidst text on the page. The king is a recurrent motif, embodying power and authority. Consider its evolution from ancient god-kings to medieval monarchs, each iteration reflecting the socio-political landscape of its time. We see echoes of this figure across cultures, from the pharaohs of Egypt to the emperors of Rome. The crown, universally recognized, symbolizes not just earthly power but divine sanction, a concept that has shifted dramatically through history. The image taps into our collective memory, evoking deep-seated notions of leadership and control. The act of bestowing or wearing a crown stirs potent emotional responses, reflecting a complex interplay of desire, ambition, and the burden of responsibility. The king is not merely a ruler, but a mirror reflecting our own aspirations and fears.