Karel de Kale op zijn troon, ca. 875 1650 - 1750

Curator: Good morning, and welcome. I'd like to draw your attention to a piece titled "Karel de Kale op zijn troon, ca. 875," which roughly translates to "Charles the Bald on his Throne." Though the title suggests an earlier date, this print actually comes to us from somewhere in the 17th or 18th century. Editor: Bald? He’s got a crown, you know! He looks rather imposing, actually. There's this strange mix of gravity and what feels like... theatricality? Almost as if the artist were attempting solemnity but slipped on a banana peel on the way there. Curator: Well, part of that might be in its nature as a print—specifically an engraving—these things often borrow conventions from various eras and blend symbolic languages. Take note of the architectural frame behind him; it suggests a blend of classical and Byzantine ideals. Editor: Ooh, good catch! It does resemble a sort of reliquary shrine, or maybe even an ark… Are those supposed to be biblical figures up there? He certainly seems divinely appointed. Curator: Possibly. The figures above could represent virtues or historical figures connected to Charles's reign. But the sphere he's holding is really fascinating—it's essentially a microcosm, a symbol of his dominion over the world. It represents the universe itself in a very medieval way. It makes one think about the continuity of symbols of power, you see? The orb remains a key symbol throughout time. Editor: That orb does make him look rather… top-heavy, like he might tip over! It’s curious how such powerful symbols can come across as faintly absurd. Still, the details are stunning when you consider that this is an engraving. There's such delicacy, such intricate line work...It's easy to overlook how technically impressive pieces like this can be. Curator: Exactly. And notice how the angels frame the architectural space? The intention is less to portray something literal, and more to construct a layered, symbolic vision of authority. How visual imagery shapes understanding across centuries! Editor: Yes! The more I look, the more I get absorbed by the historical narrative presented. What did folks back then want us to feel, and does it even resonate with today's viewers? Now I’m curious what the artist intended us to make of old baldy on his throne. Thanks for showing me a fresh point of view!