Portret van Charlotte van Mecklenburg-Strelitz c. 1765 - 1771

Curator: It’s such a poised profile, isn’t it? Very clean and proper, I find her face rather expressionless… almost cold, yet dignified. Editor: Right, and this is a portrait of Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, Queen of Great Britain, made around 1765 to 1771, done by James Watson, and it's an engraving—though it almost has the soft, diffuse look of a pencil drawing, wouldn’t you agree? Curator: Absolutely. Look at the drape of her fur stole – it is masterfully rendered. And she positively glitters with jewels. She looks every bit the royal. What symbolism are you picking up here? Editor: Well, immediately, the pearls. They represent purity and wisdom, things associated with the moon and feminine energy. I wonder if the rose embellishment points to her beauty and supposed love. And you see the fabric in the back is slightly reminiscent of stage curtains. It draws attention to her performance, which as royalty, she constantly has to execute. Curator: Yes, exactly. I find these portraits often say more about what a ruler *wants* to convey, than what they truly are. I find them somewhat artificial, if expertly executed. I mean, can you imagine carrying the weight of the British Empire while simultaneously curating such a flawless image? Exhausting! Editor: Perhaps she saw it as part of the role. The symbols are all meant to show power, certainly, but perhaps also a sense of security. That she has the support of the kingdom behind her. The Queen projecting steadiness. She looks directly to the future and is hopeful. Curator: Fair enough. All in all, it's a very skillful work of Baroque portraiture. One cannot help but respect the technical achievement and that icy glamour she wears so effortlessly. Though I prefer a portrait to offer at least a *hint* of the soul beneath. Editor: I appreciate this engraving and hope visitors enjoy examining what qualities Charlotte and Watson aimed to impart with such great care. Thank you.