Studieblad met Maria dei Medici's gelukkige regering, een jongenskopje en twee manskoppen. 1800 - 1900

This study sheet, depicting Maria dei Medici’s fortunate reign along with a boy's head and two male heads, was made by an anonymous artist. Looking at this study, it’s hard not to think about the representations of power and gender at play in the 17th century. Maria dei Medici, as a queen regent, held significant influence, yet her power was always mediated through her role as a mother and wife. The inclusion of the boy’s head, presumably a young prince, speaks to the dynastic concerns of the time. Meanwhile, the sketches of male heads might represent advisors or figures of authority surrounding the queen. The study raises questions about the performative aspects of power, particularly for women in positions of authority. How much of Maria’s image was shaped by political necessity, and how much reflected her true self? This image reminds us that even seemingly straightforward portraits are laden with complex social and political meanings.