Portret van Wilhelmina, koningin der Nederlanden 1883 - 1890

Editor: Here we have "Portret van Wilhelmina, koningin der Nederlanden," created between 1883 and 1890 by E. & A. Tilly. It's a drawing or print – maybe an engraving? The portrait itself is lovely but somewhat severe, surrounded by delicate floral ornamentation. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Well, imagine being little Wilhelmina, perhaps feeling all of six years old, perched and proper for this portrait, right? But what if those roses aren't just pretty frills, but tiny whispers of hope, a counterpoint to the weight of expectation already settling on her small shoulders? Think of it: printmaking in that era was a way to mass produce an image of royalty, to have it seen everywhere – what kind of a responsibility is that for someone so young? Editor: So, it's less about capturing likeness and more about projecting an image? Curator: Precisely! It’s a careful balance, isn’t it? How do you project strength while also conveying accessibility, especially of a royal figure? Look at the detail in the dress; how could that relate to the function of this portrait, and her persona? Editor: I hadn't considered that; it's more than just a sweet little portrait. All those repeated engravings to disseminate this image–it does present a weighty purpose, despite the lightness of the rendering and framing of roses. Curator: See? Suddenly, those roses have thorns. Now, tell me, does understanding the context alter your initial feeling about it? Editor: Definitely. It's become much more nuanced, even a little sad, now. The combination of delicate art and royal command. Curator: Indeed, from seeming just a pretty picture to revealing an intimate glimpse into a queen in the making, through this subtle dance of public image and private vulnerability.