Twee viooltjes met silhouetportretten van Willem V, prins van Oranje-Nassau, en Wilhelmina van Pruisen c. 1787

This small, anonymous work features two violets encircled by a wreath, with silhouette portraits of Willem V and Wilhelmina of Prussia subtly worked into the flower petals. The violet, a symbol of modesty and faithfulness, was often exchanged between lovers and friends. It represents here the bond between the ruling couple, an emblem of loyalty and affection. The wreath has appeared as a classical motif since ancient times, signifying victory, honor, or eternal life. Here, it suggests the enduring legacy of the House of Orange-Nassau. We see the wreath in Roman imperial portraits, adorning the heads of emperors, and in Renaissance paintings, framing sacred figures. This simple composition conveys a powerful sense of stability. Like the persistent reappearance of classical motifs, the desire for enduring love and legacy is a constant throughout human history. This image taps into our collective memory, engaging us with deeply rooted cultural and emotional associations.