Frederika Sophia Wilhelmina (Wilhelmina; 1747-1820), prinses van Pruisen. Echtgenote van prins Willem V 1767 - 1820

Editor: So, this is a miniature painting, "Frederika Sophia Wilhelmina, Princess of Prussia," by Johannes Emilius Phaff. It was created sometime between 1767 and 1820. The artist used acrylic paint. It has such an intimate feel. What’s your read on this little treasure? Curator: Well, first off, miniature portraits in this Rococo style are pure visual poetry, aren't they? The level of detail the artist achieved in such a small format is astounding. For me, it whispers secrets of powdered wigs and clandestine courtly affairs. There is almost an element of voyeurism involved in the process of observation. Does this ring true for you as well? Editor: Definitely, that feeling of intimacy is so intense. I think what gets me is her direct gaze, the subject feels very present despite the distance in time. Curator: Absolutely! It feels like you could share your latest gossip with her. Though, consider that Wilhelmina had quite a tumultuous life. It might not have always been as frothy and sweet as the style implies. Editor: That's a great point! It is a contrast. What do you think she would say if she could see us now, talking about her hundreds of years later? Curator: I bet she’d be amused, maybe even flattered! It’s like we’re carrying on the tradition of whispers, just in a much bigger room. She seems intelligent, which can’t be said about some. I think it also goes to show how paintings such as these, even across time, invite conversations that give them an undeniable staying power. Editor: That is for sure, her story continues, her beauty lasts.