Tile with a bust of William III (1650–1702) 1689 - 1699

This tin-glazed earthenware tile depicting William III was created by Adrianus Kocx in the late 17th century and is currently held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The tile presents a visually striking image dominated by its blue and white contrast. This monochromatic scheme emphasizes form and the detailed execution of ornamental motifs. The composition is carefully structured, featuring a symmetrical arrangement of cherubs, floral patterns, and drapery around a central cartouche and bust. This symmetry is a visual cue, reinforcing ideas of order and hierarchy, reflecting the values of the ruling class. The tile’s surface is divided into distinct, yet interconnected zones. Note how these zones create a sense of depth and perspective within the two-dimensional plane. Overall, the tile functions not merely as decoration but as a complex system of signs, communicating power and prestige. Its interpretation remains open, depending on the viewer's cultural and historical vantage point.