Portret van Sophia Dorothea van Hannover, koningin van Pruisen 1706 - 1775

Gustav Andreas Wolfgang created this print of Sophia Dorothea of Hannover, Queen of Prussia, in the 18th century. The print presents us with a window into the social and political landscape of European royalty. As a portrait of a Queen, the image carries the weight of dynastic power, demonstrating the importance of aristocratic lineage in 18th-century Europe. It was produced during the height of the Enlightenment, a period that saw both the consolidation of monarchical power and the rise of revolutionary sentiment. Note how the formal qualities of the print, such as the Queen's dignified pose and elegant attire, serve to legitimize her authority. This image is one of many visual materials that helped to shape the public image of European monarchs. To understand this print fully, it is essential to consult historical documents. These may shed light on the artist’s intentions, the social context in which the artwork was produced, and the complex relationship between art and power.