Portret van Charlotte Philiberthe van Nassau-Beverweerd c. 1675s - 1685s

Paul van Somer II etched this portrait of Charlotte Philiberthe van Nassau-Beverweerd around the turn of the 18th century. Note the pose: a relaxed contrapposto, her hand gently gesturing, as if she is both present and ethereal. This gesture—the open hand, the inviting yet gentle command—reverberates through art history. Consider its echo in classical depictions of Orpheus, his hand outstretched, charming nature with his lyre. Or trace it back further, to ancient depictions of rulers, where such gestures signified authority. Here, in Charlotte’s portrait, this same motif is imbued with a certain femininity, a gentler form of command. How has this symbol—this beckoning hand—traveled through time, shifting in meaning, yet retaining its core essence of invitation, guidance, and the subtle assertion of power? Our collective memory and subconscious processes can help us explore the nuanced meanings embedded in this simple gesture.