Frederik Hendrik, prins van Oranje c. 1632

Michiel Jansz. van Mierevelt painted this portrait of Frederik Hendrik, Prince of Orange, using oil on panel. The painting is, of course, representational, but consider the labor involved in creating the sitter’s likeness. This isn’t just about pigment and brushstrokes. Think about the process of refining and applying the paint itself, as well as the skilled craftsmanship of the subject's ornate armor. The armor itself is a kind of social and political artifact; it represents the time and resources invested in creating a visual embodiment of power. The Prince of Orange's status is enhanced not only by the fine metalwork but also by the delicate lace collar, its elaborate design a testament to the artistry of lacemaking. This speaks to the skilled handiwork, and the many hours of painstaking work, required to create an opulent item like this. By focusing on the materials and modes of production, we get a richer sense of the social and economic context of this portrait, and how it transcends the boundary between fine art and craft.