Wilhelmina Carolina (1743-87), prinses van Oranje-Nassau. Dochter van prins Willem IV 1787 - 1790

This miniature portrait of Wilhelmina Carolina, Princess of Orange-Nassau, was crafted by an anonymous artist with delicate brushstrokes on a small piece of ivory, likely in the mid-18th century. What immediately catches the eye is the frame, adorned with meticulously placed seed pearls. These tiny spheres, harvested from mollusks, were prized for their subtle luster. Consider the labor involved in collecting, sorting, and setting each pearl. This speaks to the immense wealth concentrated in royal families, and the availability of skilled artisans who could transform raw materials into objects of exquisite refinement. The portrait itself, while small, is full of detail, suggesting a close relationship between artist and sitter. This wasn’t just art; it was a personal expression of status and connection. By looking closely at this piece, we can begin to appreciate how it bridges the worlds of fine art, jewelry, and social history.