Frederick Henry (?), Stadholder and Prince of Orange (1584-1647) c. 1650

This painted wooden sculpture portrays Frederick Henry, the Stadholder and Prince of Orange, and was made by an anonymous artist. The sculpture embodies the political and social currents of the Dutch Golden Age, a period defined by burgeoning trade and military expansion. During this era, the House of Orange rose to prominence and played a crucial role in the Dutch Republic's fight for independence. The sculpture presents Frederick Henry in a formal, authoritative pose, emphasizing his power and status. Consider the implications of this representation; the artist, while unknown to us, crafted an image that not only reflects the social hierarchy of the time, but also contributes to the construction of Frederick Henry's identity as a leader. This wooden figure, frozen in time, invites us to reflect on the narratives of power and identity that continue to shape our understanding of history.