Twee prentbriefkaarten van een bezoek van koningin Wilhelmina 1912

These two postcards document Queen Wilhelmina's visit, captured by an anonymous photographer. The images offer a glimpse into the ceremonial and carefully constructed image of royalty. Wilhelmina, adorned in elaborate attire, is seen both riding in a carriage and amidst a crowd, shielded by a parasol. These scenes reflect the rigid class structures of the time and the perceived distance between the monarchy and the public. Yet, there’s an intriguing tension in these images. The act of photographing Wilhelmina humanizes her, while the setting—amidst everyday life—reveals the monarchy's attempt to connect with its subjects. These photographs thus serve as a window into the complex interplay between power, representation, and the evolving relationship between royalty and the public. The visual narrative invites us to consider the emotional implications of these constructed encounters and the personal within the political.