Koningin Clothilde c. 1841s

This is Louis Lassalle's rendering of "Koningin Clothilde." Lassalle, active in the 19th century, positions us within a time of burgeoning nationalism where historical figures were reclaimed and reimagined to serve contemporary ideologies. Here, Clothilde, a queen of the Franks from the 6th century, stands as a symbol of power and piety. Lassalle, however, reduces her to a two-dimensional figure, as he uses her to reinforce dominant narratives rather than explore the complexities of her identity. The inclusion of the cross, while marking her religious devotion, also situates her within a history of religious and political conflict. Consider the weight of representation here, the choices made in depicting Clothilde, and how they reflect the values and biases of Lassalle's time. Lassalle gives us a serene queen, yet how might Clothilde have seen herself?