Stamboom van het Habsburgse huis, blad zeven 1533 - 1535

This genealogical tree of the House of Habsburg was etched by Robert Péril. The tree visualizes the lineage of one of Europe's most influential royal houses. These family trees were more than just historical records; they were powerful statements of identity and legitimacy in a society deeply stratified by class and ancestry. This piece would have shaped perceptions of the Habsburgs, reinforcing their status through a carefully constructed visual narrative. It is an interesting display of how powerful families control their narratives. What is revealed, and what is omitted, is a political act, constructing and reinforcing the power of the Habsburg dynasty. The portraits are a visual encoding of power, reminding us that identity is often a construct, shaped by those in positions of authority. It invites us to consider how such visual representations have historically influenced, and continue to influence, our understanding of identity, power, and history.