Christine, Queen of Sweden 1653

Editor: So, this is Jeremias Falck's portrait of Christine, Queen of Sweden. It's an engraving, and I'm struck by how she's presented, almost challenging the viewer. What stands out to you about this piece? Curator: Christine's gaze certainly grabs you, doesn't it? It’s more than just a portrait; it's a statement. She was a fascinating, unconventional ruler. I see someone who’s both regal and… well, perhaps a little rebellious. The soft curls, the dark robe, the hand gesture, they all contribute to a complex image of power and intellect. It makes me wonder, what was Falck trying to capture here, and how did Christine want to be seen? Editor: I hadn't thought about her wanting to be seen a certain way. I was just seeing a queen. Curator: Exactly! And that's the beauty of art, isn't it? We bring our own perspectives, and then the piece whispers secrets if we listen closely. Now I’m curious to learn more about Christine’s reign.