Twee groepsportretten van de koninklijke familie: koningin-moeder Emma, koningin Wilhelmina, prins Hendrik en prinses Juliana 1930

These two group portraits of the Dutch Royal Family were captured by Franz Ziegler. Observe the matriarchal figure, Queen Emma, adorned in a widow’s headdress, a symbol steeped in mourning and remembrance. This headdress reminds us of similar veiled figures throughout art history, such as the veiled depictions of the Virgin Mary. In both instances, the veil signifies not only bereavement but also purity and reverence. The act of veiling conceals, yet simultaneously reveals a deeper emotional and spiritual truth. It has carried immense psychological weight across time, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. The image reflects the cyclical nature of symbols—how they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across different epochs, influenced by collective memory and cultural shifts.