Ter Herinering aan het 40 jarig Regeeringsjubileum van H. M. Koningin Wilhelmina 1898 - 6 september 1938. 1938

This commemorative print by V. Mantgem celebrates Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands' 40-year reign in 1938, showcasing potent symbols of monarchy and national identity. Dominating the composition are heraldic motifs – lions, crowns, and shields – that are not mere decorations, but embodiments of power, lineage, and historical continuity. Consider the lion, a recurring figure across various European coats of arms, echoing back to ancient bestial symbols of strength and courage. The crown, of course, is central to the image. This is a symbol found across cultures, from antiquity to present day, representing divine right and authority. Here, it appears both atop Wilhelmina's initial and above the Dutch coat of arms. These motifs evoke a collective memory, a desire for stability and order, especially poignant in a Europe teetering on the brink of war. The artist taps into a deep well of cultural symbols, reassuring viewers of the enduring nature of their nation and its leaders. This tapestry of symbolism continues to resonate, reminding us of the cyclical nature of history and the enduring power of images to shape our perceptions.