Portret van Don Miguel, koning van Portugal 1823 - 1828

This is Franz Xaver Stöber's portrait of Dom Miguel, King of Portugal. With the print, we are immediately thrust into the political complexities of 19th-century Europe. Dom Miguel’s story is a fascinating one of power, exile, and shifting alliances. His reign was marked by conservative policies and conflicts over constitutionalism, reflecting the broader tensions of a continent grappling with revolutionary ideas. Born into royalty, Miguel's life was defined by the turmoil of his time, as he navigated a world of political upheaval and ideological clashes. Consider how the artist Stöber, chose to portray the King. What aspects of Miguel’s identity are emphasized? Does this image present him as a progressive leader or a staunch traditionalist? Think about how portraits like this were used to shape public perception and legitimize power. It is a glimpse into a world of kings and kingdoms, where the personal and political were deeply intertwined.