Vrijheid, Broederschap en Gelijkheid, decoratie op de Hogesluis, 1795 1795

This print, made in 1795 by an anonymous artist, depicts decoration on the Hogesluis, and is made from simple ink on paper. The image, a clean and precise engraving, illustrates three columns, each topped with different symbols and named with the famous revolutionary slogan, "Freedom, Brotherhood, Equality." Notice the linear details of the columns, emphasizing a sense of order and structure, reflecting the Enlightenment values of reason and clarity. The print’s precise lines and controlled aesthetic suggest a belief in the power of design to communicate political ideals during a time of radical change and social transformation. The act of printing itself is a powerful form of production, enabling the widespread distribution of ideas and imagery. In this context, printmaking becomes a tool for disseminating revolutionary concepts, making them accessible to a broader audience. By considering the materials and processes behind this seemingly simple print, we gain a deeper understanding of its role in shaping cultural and political discourse.