Chilperik I te paard en Fredegonde 1857

This anonymous print at the Rijksmuseum depicts Chilperik I on horseback and Fredegonde. We're given a glimpse into the tumultuous world of Merovingian Dynasty, a period marked by power struggles, betrayals, and the looming figures of its queens. Here, Chilperik I is astride a horse, brandishing an axe in triumph, while a fallen warrior lies beneath him, his reign marked by constant conflict and territorial disputes. Contrast this with Fredegonde, depicted standing serenely in her royal garments. A woman of immense power and influence, her story is one of ambition, strategic cunning, and ruthless determination, navigating a world dominated by men. Consider the emotional landscape of this historical moment: the exhilaration of victory, the cold calculation of power, and the quiet strength of a queen in a kingdom defined by violence and intrigue. This image reminds us of the complex interplay between gender, power, and identity in shaping the course of history.