Portret van Karel XI, koning van Zweden 1668

Editor: Here we have a rather striking 1668 engraving, "Portret van Karel XI, koning van Zweden," or "Portrait of Charles XI, King of Sweden" by Pieter van Schuppen, currently residing in the Rijksmuseum. There’s something almost theatrical about the composition, with these majestic lions supporting... everything. What leaps out at you when you look at this print? Curator: The lions definitely make a statement, don't they? The whole thing is a Baroque power fantasy. It's not just a portrait; it's a declaration. See how the bust of Charles XI, complete with helmet, is almost literally elevated above the earthly realm? Those regal objects—the globe, the crown—sit between him and the ferocious yet subservient lions. This isn't just about showing what he *looked* like; it's about what he *represented*. Editor: So it’s less about capturing his likeness, and more about crafting an image of kingship? Does that mean Van Schuppen had an agenda? Curator: Absolutely! Think about the context: 17th-century rulers needed to project power and legitimacy. An engraving like this, widely distributed, could reinforce those ideas. That's the 'history-painting' aspect shining through, beyond the immediate portrait style. Editor: I guess I was so caught up in the lions and the face, I wasn't thinking about it as propaganda. The detail is also fantastic for the period, look at the mane of the lions and the helmet, this makes you forget this is just ink. Curator: Precisely! Pieter van Schuppen had truly impressive mastery of the engraving medium. I mean, the varying densities of lines and the shading... breathtaking when you stop to think about it. Editor: Okay, I’m definitely seeing more than just a face now. All this talk about the hidden messages and technique make me feel as if the artist aimed at impressing the public and also conveying a sense of pride. Thanks for shedding some light! Curator: It's all about seeing the layers beneath the surface. Each little detail plays a part. A fun deep-dive, wouldn't you agree?