Portret van Sophie van Württemberg c. 1839 - 1841

J. Koole created this portrait of Sophie van Württemberg using etching techniques. Sophie, depicted here, was not merely a royal figure, but also a woman of considerable intellect and independence during a time of strict gender roles. As the first wife of King William III of the Netherlands, her position was one of immense visibility and scrutiny. You see her wearing an elaborate dress and jewelry, symbols of her status, yet there’s a contemplative expression that hints at a complex inner life. Sophie was known for her sharp wit and progressive views, and the image reflects the tensions between her public role and personal identity. The floral border and elegant script add to the idealized representation of women that was expected in such portraits. Sophie, however, defied many of these expectations through her writings and engagement with social issues. This image offers a glimpse into the life of a woman navigating the constraints and expectations of 19th-century European royalty. It captures both the grandeur and the personal struggles inherent in her position.