Portret van Charlotte van Bourbon 18th century

This is an engraving of Charlotte van Bourbon, made by an anonymous artist. This delicate print offers a window into the turbulent world of 16th-century European politics and religion. Charlotte, born into French nobility, defied convention by converting to Protestantism, a radical act with far-reaching consequences. The print, likely produced in the Netherlands, a haven for religious dissenters, emphasizes Charlotte's noble status through her elaborate attire and dignified bearing. Yet, the simplicity of the engraving suggests a deliberate downplaying of courtly excess, aligning her with the Protestant values of piety and humility. Understanding this image requires us to consider the role of women in the Reformation, the dynamics of religious conflict, and the power of printmaking to disseminate political and religious ideas. Such research helps us to understand the social context that shaped both Charlotte’s life and the creation of this compelling portrait.