Portret van Willem II, koning der Nederlanden c. 1856 - 1910

This is a portrait of Willem II, King of the Netherlands. The artwork is an engraving featuring the king in military attire, adorned with symbolic regalia. Note the prominent Maltese Cross suspended from his neck. This emblem, historically associated with the Knights of Malta, suggests a lineage of valor and Christian duty. Its reappearance throughout history, from medieval banners to modern-day awards, signifies honor and bravery. This cross is not merely decorative; it taps into a deep well of collective memory, evoking a subconscious connection to past heroes and ideals. Observe how the artist used this potent symbol to convey a sense of regal authority. Such symbols possess a cyclical power. The resonance of these symbols engages viewers, stirring emotions linked to historical narratives of heroism, duty, and the enduring quest for order.