Portret van Louise de Coligny c. 1586 - 1629

This is a portrait of Louise de Coligny, made by Crispijn van den Queborn in the 17th century. Queborn's engraving provides a window into the world of a woman whose life was shaped by the intersection of faith, power, and familial duty. Louise de Coligny, a woman of French Huguenot heritage, became a figurehead in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule through her marriage to William the Silent. Her life was deeply entwined with the religious and political conflicts of her time, which saw the rise of Protestantism and the struggle for Dutch independence. Portraits of women from this time often served to reinforce their family’s status and lineage. However, Louise distinguished herself through acts of piety and charity that went beyond the conventions of nobility. She maintained ties with her French roots while embracing her role in the Dutch court. Her decisions reflect not just personal convictions but also the complex negotiations women had to make within a patriarchal society. Queborn’s portrait offers a glimpse into the life of a woman who navigated the turbulent waters of 17th-century Europe with resilience. It invites us to reflect on the legacies of women who shaped history.