Portret van koning Johannes III van Portugal 1556

This is a portrait of King John III of Portugal made by Frans Huys, sometime between 1522 and 1562. The print is dominated by the oval frame, encapsulating the king's likeness and power, while the engraving technique lends itself to a play of light and shadow, emphasizing the texture of his garments and the contours of his face. The choice of an oval shape focuses our attention, creating an intimate yet formal viewing experience. The text encircling the portrait acts as both frame and signifier, literally bounding the king within his titles. It is not merely decorative; the careful arrangement suggests a symbolic enclosure, highlighting the divine authority attributed to him. Ultimately, the artwork invites us to consider the relationship between representation and authority, revealing how artistic choices reinforce cultural values and power structures. The portrait is not simply a likeness but a constructed image that negotiates ideas of monarchy, divinity, and the expansionist claims of 16th-century Portugal.