Portret van Maurits, prins van Oranje 17th century

This is an engraving of Maurits, Prince of Orange, made by an anonymous artist. The portrait presents Maurits in armor, framed by laurel leaves and inscriptions denoting his titles. Consider the historical weight of this image. Maurits, as a leader in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, was a key figure in the formation of the Dutch Republic. This portrait, therefore, isn't just a likeness; it's a carefully constructed representation of power and authority, made to bolster the Dutch national identity. We should think about the cultural norms of portraiture at the time. How did images of leaders reinforce social hierarchies? Whose stories were being told, and whose were being left out? This image performs an important function - to remind the Dutch people of their leader, and to inspire them to remain independent.