Schotel, beschilderd met portret van stadhouder Willem IV 1758

This 1758 Delftware plate depicts a portrait of Stadtholder Willem IV, the ruler of the Dutch Republic from 1751 to 1759. Created by an anonymous artist, the plate is a fine example of decorative Dutch tin-glazed earthenware, also known as Delftware. Painted in blue, yellow, and green tones, the piece displays a colorful floral border and a central motif of the Stadtholder holding a baton. The inscription at the bottom of the plate speaks of the Prince's mortality, adding a poignant and historical touch to the decorative object. The Rijksmuseum now houses this piece, a testament to the popularity of depicting royalty in Dutch decorative arts during the 18th century.