Portret van Sophia Dorothea, prinses van Pruisen 1739 - 1775

This print of Sophia Dorothea, Princess of Prussia, was made in 1788 by Gustav Andreas Wolfgang. It offers a glimpse into the visual culture of European aristocracy and the role of portraiture in shaping public perception. Prints like this were not just images, but tools for projecting power and status. Consider the visual codes: her elaborate dress, jewelry, and the ermine-lined robe, all speak to her elevated rank. The inscription reinforces her lineage, emphasizing her royal connections. This image would have circulated amongst the elite, reinforcing social hierarchies and dynastic connections. The print was made at a time of significant social and political change, when the old order was being questioned. By studying prints like this, and the institutions that produced and circulated them, we can learn a great deal about the complex relationship between art, power, and society in the 18th century. Researching the history of printmaking and the social networks of the European courts will provide even deeper understanding.