Portret van Maurits, prins van Oranje 17th century

This is an engraved portrait of Maurits, Prince of Orange, made by an anonymous artist. The prince is depicted in armor, framed by an oval with inscriptions, and below him, a tree stump sprouts a new branch, accompanied by the Latin motto "Tandem fit surculus arbor" – "At last the shoot becomes a tree." The image of the tree, barren yet promising new growth, echoes through the ages. We find it in ancient Roman coins, symbolizing renewal after conflict, and later in Renaissance emblems, representing hope and regeneration. The image carries the emotional weight of resilience. Think of how this symbol, like the phoenix, has been passed down through history, shifting in meaning, yet always tied to the hope of overcoming adversity. The choice of this symbol engages viewers on a subconscious level, conveying the intense emotional states tied to overcoming difficulty. The motif represents a cyclical progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.