Portræt af Frederik Henrik af Oranien 1610

Jacob Matham produced this print of Frederik Hendrik of Orange, likely in the Dutch Republic around 1613. This portrait is more than just an image of a powerful man; it’s a carefully constructed statement about authority and legitimacy. Consider how the armor and the baton serve as symbols of military leadership, and how the elaborate lace collar projects an image of refinement. The choice of printmaking as a medium is also telling. Prints could be reproduced and disseminated widely, allowing images of Frederik Hendrik to circulate and reinforce his image across the Republic and beyond. By studying sources from the time, we can further understand the intentions behind this portrait and the broader visual culture of the Dutch Golden Age.