Ruiterportret van Frederik Hendrik, prins van Oranje 19th century

This is an anonymous portrait of Frederik Hendrik, Prince of Orange, made using an unknown material. Here, the Prince is depicted astride a rearing horse, a symbol of power and authority, evoking classical equestrian statues of Roman emperors. The rearing horse—a motif that can be traced back to antiquity—is not merely a display of horsemanship; it's a carefully constructed symbol. Think of the Marcus Aurelius statue in Rome. It's a symbol of triumph and control, but also hints at the latent, untamed power that lies beneath the surface. The Prince's confident pose and the horse's dynamic movement create a powerful visual statement, designed to resonate with viewers on a deep, almost subconscious level. This visual language—this Pathosformel—has been passed down through history, shifting in meaning yet retaining its emotional core.