Portret van Willem III, prins van Oranje 1688 - 1726

This engraving portrays Willem III, Prince of Orange. The most striking symbol here is the crown. Traditionally, it represents power, authority, and divine sanction. Consider how the motif of the crown is translated through history. In ancient Egypt, pharaohs wore the pschent, combining the red crown of Lower Egypt and the white crown of Upper Egypt, symbolizing unified rule. Later, in the Roman Empire, emperors adopted laurel wreaths, precursors to the metal crowns we recognize today, implying victory and imperial power. It's not just about authority; the crown also evokes a sense of collective identity. The weight of history, the burden of leadership—these are subconsciously communicated through this single object. Such symbols resonate deeply because they tap into shared cultural memories. As we see in this engraving, the crown is not a mere adornment but a powerful emblem. The non-linear journey of this symbol continues, ever-evolving, as civilizations rise and wane.