Plechtige begrafenis van H.M. de Koningin der Nederlanden op den 20sten juni 1877 1877

This print captures the funeral procession of the Queen of the Netherlands on June 20th, 1877, and was created by an anonymous artist. This detailed depiction of a royal funeral is more than just a record; it's a window into the rituals of power, gender, and national identity in the late 19th century. Consider the role of women, even in death, within the monarchy and society. The Queen, as a symbol of motherhood and nationhood, was central to the image of the Dutch state. Her funeral, meticulously documented here, served as a carefully orchestrated performance of grief and reverence, reinforcing social hierarchies. The elaborate display of military personnel, horse-drawn carriages, and dignitaries, all marching in precise order, underscore the power and reach of the monarchy. The artist provides a snapshot of a society grappling with questions of tradition and modernity, offering us a glimpse into the emotional and political landscape of the Netherlands.