Portræt af Frederik V's dronning Louise 1745 - 1780

Andreas Thornborg painted this miniature portrait of Queen Louise of Denmark, likely using watercolors on ivory, during the 18th century. Her powdered hair, adorned with jewels, and her ermine-lined robe, are symbols of royalty and status. Consider the ermine, a motif extending far beyond this tiny portrait. In medieval times, it symbolized purity and moral integrity, a belief so strong that nobles often chose dishonor rather than stain the animal's pristine white fur. We see this motif recurring throughout history, from Renaissance paintings to modern-day coronations. Its presence speaks to a deep, almost subconscious desire for virtuous leadership. The emotional resonance of such symbols is not to be underestimated. The collective memory of ages past is embedded within these images, engaging viewers on a profound level. The ermine, like other emblems of power, has undergone transformations in meaning, yet its echoes persist, shaping our perceptions of authority and nobility.