Reproductie van een portret van Leopold II van België 1865 - 1880

This reproduction depicts Leopold II of Belgium, its creation date and artist remain unknown. Leopold is adorned with various stars and medals. The stars, ancient symbols of guidance and destiny, connect him to a long lineage of leaders who sought to project power and authority. Consider the star motif, a recurring symbol across cultures, from the Star of Bethlehem guiding the Magi, to the stars on military uniforms denoting rank. What psychological need does this symbol fulfill? Is it a deep-seated yearning for direction and order, or the seductive allure of ambition and power? Leopold’s medals, emblems of valor and service, can be traced back to ancient Roman military decorations. These symbols of honor and recognition have evolved, yet their essence remains. They tap into our collective memory, evoking feelings of respect, admiration, and perhaps, even envy. These decorations create an emotional connection with the viewer and remind us of the cyclical nature of power and its symbols.