Catharina de Grote bezoekt Potemkin, ca. 1790 1798 - 1800

This print, made around 1790 by Lambertus Antonius Claessens, depicts Catherine the Great visiting Potemkin. But what story does the image tell about power and representation in 18th-century Russia? Notice Potemkin's humble garb and surroundings, contrasted with Catherine's rich attire. The crucifix in the background adds a layer of religious solemnity. This carefully staged encounter reflects the complex relationship between the monarch and her influential advisor. It was produced during a time of expansion and reform, with Russia asserting itself on the European stage. Potemkin, a key figure in these developments, is presented here in a deliberately ambiguous manner. Was he a loyal servant or a manipulative figure? The image invites us to question the nature of power and influence within the Russian court. To delve deeper, we can explore archival materials, letters, and diplomatic records. By understanding the social and political context, we can uncover the hidden meanings embedded in this seemingly simple image. The historian's role is to unveil the layers of meaning shaped by the institutions and power dynamics of the time.