Penning met Karel II en Maria Anna van Beieren 1689

Juan Dolivar created this print of a medal depicting Karel II and Maria Anna of Bavaria. During the 17th century in Europe, political marriages were more than personal unions; they were strategic alliances between royal families. In this context, the depiction of Karel II and Maria Anna on a medal speaks volumes about the power dynamics of the time. Maria Anna's identity as a woman in a patriarchal society was intrinsically linked to her role in securing political stability through marriage. The choice of imagery and inscription reflects societal expectations of royalty. Dolivar’s work prompts us to consider the individuals behind these historical figures, inviting a deeper understanding of the personal and emotional dimensions involved in such unions. The print also gives a glimpse into how gender, power, and identity intertwined within the intricate web of European dynastic politics.