Melania Trump’s new portrait of her second time in the White House as First Lady of the United States captivated eyes for its dynamism, but a short time later, it began making the rounds on the internet due to an identification with a well-known character.

Specifically, many on social media were those who “saw” Melania’s portrait as the iconic figure of Claire Underwood as the President of the United States in the latest season of House of Cards. So the comparison was inevitable and was accompanied by several thoughts about the message that might be behind this aesthetic choice.

See the photos:

In the portrait of Melania, who stands confidently and with an enigmatic air, there is a cold elegance and sternness, traits that strongly recall Claire Underwood, played by Robin Wright.

In the series, Claire stood out as a strong, intelligent, and often ruthless figure who did not hesitate to use any means to achieve her goals. With her determination, she had the strength to handle even the most difficult situations, operating on par – or even above – her husband, Frank Underwood. She started as his companion, became First Lady, and ended up as the first woman president of the United States.

The comparison of the two women arises mainly from the composition of the photographs. Both images show women in a stern posture, with a strong gaze and a backdrop that emphasizes power. Melania, like Claire, seems to embody the figure of a “strong woman” in a world dominated by politics and power games.

Although Melania Trump has never been profiled as a ruthless or strategic figure, this portrait – either accidentally or deliberately – brings to mind the image of Claire. Perhaps it is an attempt to present herself as more dynamic, even independent, distanced from the traditional image of a first lady. Perhaps, again, it is pure coincidence that nevertheless raises interesting interpretations.

The choice to touch on this similarity, whether by Melania’s communicators or observant internet users, underscores how powerful images are in conveying subliminal messages. Claire Underwood, despite her controversial ethics, was a role model for how women can claim power and assert themselves in the political arena. It is possible, then, that Melania’s portrait is intended to communicate a similar message, emphasizing her determination and seriousness.

The new photo of Melania, which was released in black and white, was taken at the presidential residence by photographer Regine Maho. In the photo, Melania is wearing black pants and a jacket with a white shirt, while standing upright, resting her hands on a table. The Washington Monument can be seen in the background. The photo was taken on January 21, one day after the inauguration, in her favorite room in the White House, the “Yellow Oval Room.”

Maho, a Belgian photographer known for her portraits of the Trump family, was also in charge of photographing Melania during her first term. That photo was in color, depicting the First Lady in soft lighting and warm tones. She was wearing a black tuxedo and had her arms crossed.