Portret van Catharina II van Rusland 1773

This engraving by François Anne David portrays Catherine II of Russia, enclosed in an oval frame adorned with roses and ribbons. The roses, symbols of love and beauty, echo the idealised image of the Empress, while the ribbons signify status and connection, weaving her image into the fabric of power. The wreath at the bottom, emblazoned with the Russian coat of arms, presents a fascinating echo of ancient Roman laurel wreaths, symbols of victory and imperial authority. This conscious borrowing highlights a cultural memory, a desire to align with the grandeur of past empires, a theme that surfaces repeatedly across history. The image of the wreath itself transcends time, appearing in various forms, each subtly altered by the cultural landscape it inhabits, from ancient coins to modern-day emblems. The psychological impact of this image lies in its attempt to connect Catherine II with the timeless allure of imperial power, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with the promise of stability and strength. This emblem has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts.