Portret van Emma, koningin-regentes der Nederlanden, en Wilhelmina, koningin der Nederlanden 1880 - 1882

This is Maurits Verveer’s photograph of Emma, Queen Regent, and Wilhelmina, Queen of the Netherlands. Here, Wilhelmina is just a baby, swaddled in white fabric. This photograph offers a window into the dynamics of power and gender within the Dutch monarchy. Emma served as Queen Regent during Wilhelmina's minority, stepping into a role traditionally held by men. In this image we see a tenderness, but also a careful construction of dynastic legacy. The very act of photographing the Queen Regent with her heir serves to reinforce the monarchy. The choice to portray them in a private, motherly moment seeks to humanize them. The image participates in constructing a narrative around Wilhelmina, imbuing her with a sense of destiny, so that she grows into her role as Queen. This photograph, while seemingly personal, plays a crucial role in shaping the public's perception of the monarchy and its role in Dutch society.