Artwork
Portret van Willem III, koning der Nederlanden

Portret van Willem III, koning der Nederlanden is a ceramic painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Pieter de Josselin de Jong. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. Created in 1894, this earthenware portrait presents King William III of the Netherlands.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts William III, King of the Netherlands, presented in a three-quarter pose typical of royal portraiture of the late nineteenth century.
The work depicts William III, King of the Netherlands, presented in a three-quarter pose typical of royal portraiture of the late nineteenth century.
The subject is shown wearing royal insignia, including a sash and decorations, which emphasize his sovereign status and the ceremonial role of monarchy in the Netherlands during this period. The earthenware medium and portrait genre underscore the work’s function as a commemorative representation, likely intended for institutional or public display rather than private devotion or allegory.
Technique & Style
Created in 1887 by Pieter de Josselin de Jong, this portrait of William III of the Netherlands is executed in earthenware. Although classified within the genre of painting, the work's material composition distinguishes it from traditional oil-on-canvas portraits. The piece functions as a formal depiction of the Dutch monarch, utilizing the specific handling characteristics inherent to earthenware as its primary medium and support.
Legacy
The portrait’s legacy is anchored in its presence at the Rijksmuseum, where it remains on public view and continues to inform scholarly study of late‑19th‑century Dutch portraiture. Its earthenware medium and formal composition have been cited in museum publications as exemplifying the era’s blend of traditional royal iconography with emerging artistic experimentation. The work’s attribution to Pieter de Josselin de Jong and its depiction of William III have reinforced the artist’s reputation as a leading portraitist of the Dutch royal family, influencing subsequent generations of court painters.
Overview
Created in 1894, this earthenware portrait presents King William III of the Netherlands. Executed by Dutch artist Pieter de Josselin de Jong, the work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection. The composition focuses tightly on the monarch’s face, emphasizing his white beard, solemn gaze, and the richly adorned uniform he wears.
History & Provenance
Pieter de Josselin de Jong, known for experimenting with unconventional media, produced the work shortly after William III’s death. It entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings as part of the museum’s effort to document Dutch royal portraiture, where it remains on display as an example of late‑19th‑century material innovation.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Pieter de Josselin de Jong (1861–1906) was an artist, born in Sint-Oedenrode.













