Uitgeversprospectus voor een portret van Willem IV, prins van Oranje-Nassau c. 1750

This is an advertising prospectus for a portrait of Willem IV, Prince of Orange-Nassau, created by the Societ. Bibliopol. Rotterod. The composition is dominated by the stark contrast between the black lettering and the off-white paper, creating a high-contrast visual experience. The text, densely packed, is arranged in a formal, structured manner, typical of printed documents of the period. The initial letter 'D' is ornately decorated, acting as a visual anchor and adding a layer of complexity to the otherwise straightforward design. Structurally, the piece functions as a semiotic system. The choice of typeface, layout, and language all serve to convey authority and formality, aligning with the subject matter—a portrait of a prominent political figure. The letterpress technique and the materiality of the paper also contribute to the overall meaning, evoking a sense of historical context and cultural significance. The formality of the piece underscores a deeper engagement with power and representation, reflecting how printed materials were used to shape and disseminate images of authority during this period. It invites ongoing interpretation about the relationship between text, image, and power.