Portret van koning Arthur in medaillon binnen rechthoekige omlijsting met ornamenten 1594

Nicolaes de Bruyn created this engraving of King Arthur within an ornamented frame in the late 16th or early 17th century, a period marked by a resurgence of interest in classical and medieval themes. The image presents Arthur in a classical, rather than medieval, guise. Encased in a medallion, he is in armor and raises his hand, as if in speech. This portrayal reflects the cultural Renaissance of the period, where classical and historical figures were often invoked to embody virtues and leadership. The figure is framed by symbols of power, and cherubic figures. The cherubs on either side of Arthur blowing horns can be read as an endorsement of the values he represents. The Latin text, ‘Artus Rex’ confirms this sense of power, reinforcing a narrative of kingship. The print invites us to reflect on the stories we tell about our leaders, and how these stories shape our understanding of power and authority. It reveals the emotional and cultural investment we place in historical narratives and the figures that embody them.