Portret van Willem III

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 963

Art Historical Context

This engraving, titled "Portret van Willem III," was created by Dutch artist Abraham Bloteling in 1678. Measuring 343 by 248 millimeters, the work presents a formal portrait of William III, Prince of Orange, who would later become King of England, Scotland, and Ireland. Produced during the Dutch Golden Age, it captures a moment when printed portraits helped shape public perceptions of political leaders across Europe. Bloteling specialized in engraving, a technique that allowed images to be reproduced in multiple copies with remarkable precision and detail. Unlike paintings, engravings could circulate widely among collectors and the public, making this portrait both an artistic achievement and a tool for disseminating William’s image during a period of political tension, including the Franco-Dutch War. The presence of collector’s mark Lugt 963 shows that this impression once belonged to a notable collection, underscoring its enduring appeal. Today, the print offers viewers a window into 17th-century portraiture, where technical skill and historical significance combine to preserve the memory of an influential figure.

About the Artist

Abraham Bloteling · 1640–1690

Comment on works: portraits; painter, engraver