Portrait of Maurits, Stadholder and Prince of Orange (1567–1625) (work of art)
Artwork Info
Key Ideas about this Work of Art
- Prince Maurits (Prince of Orange) led the Dutch Republic for four decades after his father, William I, was assassinated.
- Michiel van Mierevelt created this painting during the Eighty Years’ War (also known as the Dutch Revolt). He was a Dutch portrait painter who achieved financial success with his art. At the height of his career, he owned multiple homes and several plots of land.
- Dutch colonization and trade brought wealth to the Netherlands during the 17th century. Many new developments in the arts and sciences happened during this time.
- This work underwent conservation efforts at the NCMA. The painting’s old varnish was removed and revealed the more vibrant surface.
Learn More
This simple portrait, one of the most copied 17th-century Dutch paintings, shows Prince Maurits, the governor (stadholder) of Holland. Maurits’s father led the Dutch War of Independence against Spain, and he is the direct ancestor of the current Dutch royal family.
An important military and cultural figure, Maurits also protected, benefitted from, and in some cases spearheaded the activities of the Dutch East and West India companies, the two colonial corporations responsible for Dutch expansion, exploitation, and violence. Several colonies were named for Maurits, as was what is now the Hudson River when New York City was Dutch New Amsterdam.
Additional Resources
Resources for Teachers
- Read the artist’s biography.
- Read an article that explores the term “Dutch Golden Age.”
- Read a short article about the Prince of Orange.
Resources for Students
- View a similar painting by Mierevelt.
- Explore a web page that explains image transfer techniques used in art.
- Watch a video about the Eighty Years’ War.
- Watch a video about the restoration of a painting.
Images
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Portrait of Maurits, Stadholder and Prince of Orange (1567–1625)
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Conservator Megan Salazar-Walsh removing the old varnish and restoration from the painting.
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The portrait with the old varnish removed from part of the face, collar, and sash.