Christina (1616-62), koningin van Zweden 1640 - 1660

This delicate portrait of Christina, Queen of Sweden, was painted in 1660s. The most striking aspect is her androgynous appearance, a deliberate statement reflecting her intellectual and unconventional nature. The loose, flowing hair, usually associated with masculinity, is a carefully constructed image, challenging the traditional notions of femininity expected of royalty. We see this mirroring of male attributes throughout history, like the cross-dressing Joan of Arc, who donned armor to lead the French army. Consider the psychological implications: Christina's choice speaks to a deep-seated desire to transcend gender roles, echoing in modern figures like Marlene Dietrich, who blurred gender lines to challenge social norms. This subversion of gender norms touches something primal in us, evoking feelings of liberation and unease. Ultimately, Christina's portrait reminds us of the cyclical nature of history, where symbols of identity are constantly redefined and reimagined, reflecting our ever-evolving understanding of self and society.