Ruiterportret van Hendrik Casimir II, graaf van Nassau-Dietz 1675 - 1749

This is an anonymous engraving of Hendrik Casimir II, Count of Nassau-Dietz. It depicts Hendrik regally mounted on horseback amidst a battle. Hendrik’s identity as a Count, Prince, and Stadtholder is central to understanding this portrait. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was a major political and economic power. As Stadtholder of Friesland, Hendrik held significant political influence. The battle scene in the background reinforces his identity as a military leader and defender of the state. Equestrian portraits like this were typically commissioned by the elite to project power and authority, and bolster their public image. Hendrik’s confident pose and opulent attire speak to dynastic power. The emotional impact lies in the idealized representation of leadership during a time of significant social and political change. Ultimately, this engraving is less about personal likeness and more about embodying the virtues associated with leadership, reflecting the complex interplay between identity, power, and representation in Dutch society.