Borstbeeld van Koning Willem II als prins van Oranje 1826

This is a marble bust of King Willem II as Prince of Orange, carved by C. Bozet. The choice of marble is significant. From antiquity, this stone has been associated with wealth and power, not only for its cost but also for the skill required to work it. Think of the many hours of labor involved in extracting the raw material from the earth. Then, the careful process of sculpting, using chisels, rasps and abrasives to reveal the sitter’s likeness. Notice how the artist has captured the smooth texture of skin, the crisp details of his military uniform, and the soft waves of his hair. The materiality of this bust – its whiteness, its coolness to the touch, its sheer presence – all contribute to the image of authority it projects. Bozet was not only representing Willem II, but also the power of the monarchy itself. The very process of making embodies the social and cultural values of its time. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of skilled handwork, and its ability to convey meaning far beyond the purely representational.