Portret van Willem I, prins van Oranje c. 1586 - 1629

Editor: So, here we have "Portret van Willem I, prins van Oranje" by Crispijn van den Queborn, dating from around 1586 to 1629. It's an engraving. It feels quite austere, very formal. I wonder, what strikes you when you look at this print? Curator: Ah, Willem! To me, this portrait whispers tales of Dutch courage and shrewd politics, doesn’t it? It is all lines, isn’t it, yet somehow, from these careful cuts emerges a feeling of immense power. The weight of leadership in those eyes, you see? A weight rendered, ironically, with the lightest of touches! Does it make you ponder on the tools and choices of the artist here? Editor: It does! The detail in the ruff collar is amazing! But I am unsure about the intention of the text wrapped around the edge, and at the bottom… why not make the artwork purely image-based? Curator: The text encircling him, proclaiming his titles and domains, it's practically shouting "legitimacy"! And at the bottom? A sonnet! What better way to honour a Prince than poetry *and* image? Don't you think that these were like the Instagram posts of their time? Just imagine him thinking about what the inscription should say? Editor: Haha, yes that is interesting, like a proto-meme! So, between the title, his clothing and that expression, how are we meant to perceive this William of Orange? What aspects of his character are being shown? Curator: Well, my dear, Queborn wants to present Willem as a man of intellect and firm conviction, don't you think? The somber attire emphasizes the seriousness of his role, yet the delicate engraving technique suggests a subtle sensitivity. I think its message is “A prince to be trusted; both steadfast and refined” - what do you think? Editor: I agree - it is clever how the artwork and the text function together. Thanks - that's a fresh take! Curator: Indeed, and as with art generally, there is always more to discover!