Portrait of Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna (Charlotte of Prussia) 1852

Christina Robertson painted this portrait of Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna, formerly Princess Charlotte of Prussia, an intimate glimpse into the life of royalty. Robertson, as a female artist in the 19th century, navigated a complex social landscape. Her success as a portraitist allowed her access to the inner circles of European aristocracy, reflecting her skill and the societal constraints she had to overcome. Alexandra Fyodorovna's life was marked by her transition from a Prussian princess to a Russian Empress, a journey of cultural and personal adaptation. The portrait captures her in a moment of quiet reflection, her gaze direct yet gentle. The luxurious fur and velvet cloak speak to her status, but there's also a vulnerability in her expression. As an immigrant myself, I see Alexandra’s displacement and reinvention mirroring the immigrant experience. This painting provides insight into her personal narrative, offering us a deeper understanding of the woman behind the crown, and the tension between identity and societal role.