Portret van Frederik Hendrik, prins van Oranje 1606

This engraving from 1625 depicts Frederik Hendrik, Prince of Orange, using the symbolic language typical of its time. But to what end? The portrait is framed by ornate decorations, including plants, mythical creatures, and heraldic symbols. These motifs were visual cues, recognizable to the public, that served to legitimize the prince's authority and connect him to a lineage of power. The Dutch Republic, during this period, was defining itself against Spanish rule, so iconography played a crucial role in forging a national identity and bolstering the House of Orange's leadership. Produced during the Dutch Golden Age, this piece reflects the era's burgeoning print culture and the use of imagery in shaping public opinion. It wasn’t simply a portrait; it was a piece of political communication. To understand this image fully, scholars consult period documents, political pamphlets, and genealogical records. By examining the social and institutional context, we uncover the active role images played in the political theater of the Dutch Republic.