Portrait of Willem III, Prince of Orange, King of England and Stadtholder, Godfried Schalcken, c. 1692 - c. 1697

Portrait of Willem III, Prince of Orange, King of England and Stadtholder, Godfried Schalcken, c. 1692 - c. 1697

oil on canvas, h 76.5cm × w 65cm More details

This striking painting is a portrait of a ruler lit only by the flame of a candle. The candle has a symbolic meaning. It serves others with its light, while burning itself out. In other words, self-denial is a noble virtue. William wears a suit of armour with an ermine cloak around his neck as a sign of royalty.

On display in room 2.22 Visit via the Highlights 1650-1700 tour

Listen to audio fragment (from the multimedia tour)

{{currentTimeString}}

Make your own creations with this work