Portret van Jacobus I van Engeland 1612 - 1652

This is an engraving of James I of England, made by an anonymous artist in the Netherlands. The portrait presents James within an oval frame, surrounded by Latin text proclaiming his titles and virtues, and its visual codes speak volumes about the construction of royal authority during the early modern period. Engravings like this one circulated widely, shaping public perception of the monarch. They tell us about the politics of imagery. The fur robes, the jeweled chain, and the scepter are all symbolic of power and majesty. The Dutch inscription identifies James as King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, reflecting the complex political landscape of the time. To truly understand this image, we need to delve into the social and political context in which it was created. Contemporary pamphlets, letters, and diplomatic records would shed light on how James I was perceived both at home and abroad. Analyzing the engraving in relation to other portraits and depictions of the king will show us the role of art in shaping royal image and legitimizing power.