Portret van Maurits, prins van Oranje 1625 - 1699

This engraving portrays Maurits, Prince of Orange, and was created by an anonymous artist. The print offers a glimpse into the visual rhetoric of power during a transformative period in Dutch history. Maurits, a central figure in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, is depicted here not merely as an individual but as an embodiment of the burgeoning Dutch identity. The armor, the stern gaze, and the inscription all work together to construct an image of leadership and strength. But it's important to consider the complexities of this representation. How does it serve to unify a nation in the throes of war? What aspects of Maurits' character are emphasized, and what is left out? Engravings like these played a crucial role in shaping public perception and solidifying national identity. They invite us to consider the relationship between image-making, power, and the construction of historical narratives. They prompt us to reflect on whose stories are told, and how these stories shape our understanding of the past and the present.