Rijtuig van koningin Wilhelmina en koningin-moeder Emma in de tuin van het Rijksmuseum bij de Bergpoort 1898 - 1899

Barend Groote made this photograph of Queen Wilhelmina and Queen Mother Emma in a carriage at the Rijksmuseum with gelatin silver print. This photograph presents a carefully constructed image of Dutch royalty within a significant cultural institution. The Rijksmuseum itself was designed to showcase Dutch history and art, framing the royal figures within a context of national pride and cultural heritage. The presence of the Bergpoort in the backdrop, an artificial ruin created for the garden, evokes romanticism and a sense of historical depth. The image subtly reinforces the monarchy's connection to Dutch history and culture, presenting them as integral parts of the nation's identity. The photograph likely served as a piece of royal propaganda. To fully understand this image, one might consider the history of the Dutch monarchy and its relationship with the populace, consulting archives, newspapers, and other period documents. The meaning of art lies in its social context and institutional framing.