Portret van George I, koning van Engeland 1752

Jacob Houbraken created this engraving of George I, King of England. Although Houbraken was Dutch, his portrait of the German-born King George reflects the intertwined political histories of the Dutch Republic and Great Britain during the 18th century. Consider how George is presented here. The elaborate wig, the royal robes, and the ornate oval frame all contribute to an image of power and authority. This wasn't just a portrait; it was a carefully constructed representation of monarchy intended to convey legitimacy and strength during a period of shifting political alliances and social change. George's foreign roots were a significant factor in the politics of the time. As a German prince who inherited the British throne, his reign marked a complex intersection of national identities and dynastic ambitions. How might this affect British perceptions of their monarchy? This portrait, then, serves as a reminder of the personal and political negotiations that shaped the history of nations.