Portret van Wilhelmina, koningin der Nederlanden 1896

This is a portrait of Wilhelmina, Queen of the Netherlands, created by Richard Kameke. The photograph presents a study in contrasts. The queen’s satin dress, voluminous in form and light in tone, is set against a dark and structured chair. This juxtaposition draws attention to the interplay between the softness of the fabric and the rigidity of the furniture. The high collar and controlled posture suggest formality, yet the subtle patterns in the dress introduce a layer of complexity. Considering the historical context of portraiture, the image negotiates between the demands of representation and the subtle disruption of formal expectations. The composition directs our gaze towards the sitter’s hands, gently clasped, as if to convey a sense of quiet confidence. Ultimately, the artwork invites viewers to consider how the sitter's material and the structure of the portrait come together to represent not just an individual but also a figure of authority.