Wilhelmus, Comes Nassoviae c. 17th century

Curator: Willem Hondius made this engraving of Wilhelmus, Count of Nassau, sometime around the mid-17th century. It’s a portrait bust set within an oval frame, with some rather florid Latin text below. Editor: My first thought is “presence.” He really fills the frame, doesn’t he? With that mustache and intense gaze, you can almost feel his personality jump out at you. Curator: Absolutely. Hondius uses such incredibly fine lines to capture the texture of his hair, the lace on his collar, even the sheen on his armor. Look at the way the light catches his eye, it adds a real sense of vitality. Editor: And consider the symbolism. The ornate clothing, the Latin inscription—all carefully constructed to project power and authority. The oval frame, inscribed with text, feels like a window onto his world, almost like a coin. Curator: Yes, the inscription details his titles and positions. It's interesting how these portraits functioned almost as early forms of publicity, crafting and disseminating an image of the subject. Editor: It makes you wonder about the real man behind all that carefully constructed image. But still, it's a stunning piece of craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into a fascinating period of history.