Portret van Caroline van Anspach, koningin van Groot-Brittannië 1736

Alexander van Haecken made this engraving of Caroline of Ansbach, Queen of Great Britain, in 1736. As a portrait, the image announces a person’s identity, and a royal portrait broadcasts the power and status of the sitter. Caroline’s dress and surroundings create meaning through visual codes. Columns were often used in royal portraits to create an atmosphere of grandeur and history. The crown placed casually on the side table symbolizes both her power and her wealth. The ermine trim of her gown is instantly recognizable as a symbol of royalty, setting her apart from common society. Caroline was Queen during a period of immense social and political change. Looking at historical resources from the time, one can better understand the importance of imagery in creating a lasting impression of the monarchy.