Maria I Stuart in de gevangenis 1842 - 1843

Franciscus Bernardus Waanders created this print titled 'Maria I Stuart in de gevangenis' or 'Mary I Stuart in Prison'. Notice the strong vertical lines of the architecture, which create a sense of confinement and isolation. The contrast between light and shadow draws your eye to Mary’s face and the whiteness of her ruff. The somber tones evoke a feeling of melancholy and resignation. The composition is divided into distinct layers: Mary in her architectural enclosure above, and then the guards below. This separation emphasizes her isolation and vulnerability. The guards represent the external forces controlling her fate. Her delicate hand against her face suggests thoughtfulness or perhaps despair. We might consider that this piece uses historical narrative to engage with ideas of power, gender and the structure of history itself. Waanders uses form to explore themes of captivity and the psychological state of a historical figure. It invites us to contemplate the structures of power and representation in both art and history.