Standbeeld van Willem II, koning der Nederlanden, op het Buitenhof te Den Haag Possibly 1855 - 1856

Curator: This is an engraving of the statue of Willem II, King of the Netherlands, at Buitenhof in The Hague, dating from around 1855-1856. The statue itself is sculpture, and the print, housed at the Rijksmuseum, serves almost like a photograph. Editor: It has a stately, classical feel. The clean lines of the engraving make the statue seem very precise and, well, imposing. What historical context would someone have needed to understand this piece? Curator: Willem II, during his reign, was known for some interesting contradictions – a love for constitutional reform coupled with autocratic tendencies. A statue like this, in a public square, certainly played into constructing a specific image for the public. Tell me, what feelings does the protective fence evoke in you? Does it feel more about preservation, or perhaps setting him apart? Editor: I think both. The fence preserves and protects but definitely also creates a distance, making him untouchable, almost. Does the history of public sculpture provide additional insight here? Curator: Absolutely. Think of other monuments. How often are they really *inviting*? This work shows how images of power can both connect and isolate. It encourages us to ask: what does it mean to commemorate someone? What kind of story are we trying to tell – or perhaps, sell? Editor: That makes me see the image quite differently! Before, it felt straightforwardly celebratory. Now, I’m thinking about what it hides. Curator: And that shift, that deeper look, is often where art gets truly interesting. You begin questioning the story that you were being asked to believe at first glance! Editor: Definitely. Now I want to go read up more about Willem II's "contradictions," you referenced! Thanks for sharing your insights.