Portret van Willem George Frederik van Oranje-Nassau 1797

This stipple engraving rendering a portrait of Willem George Frederik van Oranje-Nassau was created by Valentine Green in 1787. The subject is depicted in neutral tones that lend a softness to his features. The sharp contrast in the dark background emphasizes the smooth texture of his face, directing the viewer's eye to his gaze. The composition relies on a formal structure, with the subject centrally positioned. The artist engages with prevailing notions of representation and power. The sitter's gaze meets the viewer's, seemingly acknowledging the act of being observed, and creating a visual discourse around visibility, authority, and the construction of identity through portraiture. The texture achieved through stippling softens the image but also serves to subtly destabilize the notion of a fixed, singular representation. This engraving thus becomes an exploration of seeing and being seen, challenging us to consider the complex interplay between representation, power, and identity.