Willem V, prins van Oranje-Nassau 1787 - 1795

This small portrait of Willem V, Prince of Orange-Nassau, is encased within a striking starburst frame. While the effigy shows a likeness of the Prince, it is the radiant starburst surrounding him that commands our attention. The star, throughout history, has symbolized divine guidance, enlightenment, and hope. We see echoes of this in ancient Egyptian art, where stars adorned the heavens, representing the souls of the deceased. Consider the Star of Bethlehem in Christian iconography, a celestial guide. This symbol appears again and again through time, each time adapted to represent its cultural and historical moment. Here, the star around Willem may be intended to evoke a sense of glory and divine right. It projects an aura of leadership and perhaps even invincibility, tapping into our collective yearning for guidance from our leaders. The artist harnesses the star’s deeply ingrained power to evoke feelings of admiration. Its non-linear journey has resurfaced here, in this small portrait, reborn with new resonance.