Willem V, prins van Oranje-Nassau 1787 - 1795

This bronze pendant of Willem V, Prince of Orange-Nassau, now held in the Rijksmuseum, presents us with a striking study in miniature portraiture. The work, by an anonymous artist, compels us to consider its form. The profile is meticulously crafted, capturing the likeness of the Prince with a clear emphasis on the structure of his face and the texture of his garments. The use of bronze lends the piece a sense of timelessness and gravitas, while the small scale invites an intimate viewing experience. The formal qualities of this pendant invite us to think about how power and identity are constructed through art. The choice of bronze, a material often associated with commemorative sculpture, elevates the sitter. The pendant’s diminutive size suggests a personal connection, meant to be worn or carried as a token of allegiance. Consider the interplay between form and function, material and meaning. In this pendant, the anonymous artist invites us to explore the relationship between art, representation, and the enduring legacy of power.