Portret van Willem, prins der Nederlanden 1858 - 1949

This is an undated portrait of Willem, Prince of the Netherlands, made by an anonymous artist. The lithograph presents a structured composition, divided into clear, formal segments. We see the subject depicted with meticulous detail in his military attire. The artist creates a semiotic system of signs of status and authority by emphasizing the textures of the uniform's embellishments, from the intricate braiding to the polished buttons. The use of line and shading constructs a sense of depth, while the stark contrast between light and shadow enhances the Prince's noble profile. The arrangement of shapes contributes to a visual hierarchy, drawing attention to the prince’s gaze and the symbols of his office. Ultimately, the artwork operates within a formal visual language that balances surface appearance with the deeper structures of political representation, creating a portrait that is both aesthetically considered and symbolically rich.