Portret van Maurits, prins van Oranje 17th century

This small portrait of Maurits, Prince of Orange, was etched by an anonymous artist. During Maurits's time as stadtholder, the Dutch Republic was solidifying its identity through military and political achievements. The portrait captures Maurits in his role as a leader, with the inscription emphasizing his titles and territorial claims. His attire reflects both his military status and noble standing. The formality of such portraits served to construct and reinforce the image of powerful figures. However, let's think about how portraits like these also contributed to the broader construction of national identity and historical memory. As Maurits’s likeness was circulated, how might those images have reinforced social hierarchies, dictating roles and expectations based on class and gender? It's a reminder that even the most seemingly straightforward images are deeply embedded in the complex power structures of their time.