Titelpagina van Plegtige inhuldiging van zyne doorlugtigste hoogheidt, Willem Karel Henrik Friso (...) als markgraaf van Vere, 1751 1751

Curator: What a fascinating example of Baroque printmaking! This is the title page from "Plegtige Inhuldiging van Zyne Doorlugtigste Hoogheidt, Willem Karel Henrik Friso... als markgraaf van Vere, 1751," created in 1751 by Isaak Tirion. It commemorates Willem Karel Hendrik Friso’s inauguration as Margrave of Vere. Editor: It looks surprisingly austere, doesn’t it? For the Baroque period, anyway. I expected something more opulent, more… dramatic. There’s a solemn air to it, emphasized by the almost brutalist typography. Curator: Yes, I think that perceived austerity lends it a particular power. It's mostly text, beautifully arranged and set. Note the elegant, heraldic device featuring two cherubic figures or mermen at the center. It hints at some grand symbolic story being laid out. Editor: Those figures certainly stand out; they appear almost dragon-like with those scaled bodies and flowing tails. To me, they could symbolize the power and prestige associated with Willem's title, but maybe also a warning, like guardians of a hidden truth. There is a medallion on the coat-of-arms depicting the wheel of fortune between them. Curator: That is interesting, the incorporation of mythical and moral symbols. It strikes me that this print's design functions very much as a curtain raiser. It promises a story contained within—a formal record of the investiture and festivities, as well as images of city's decorated gates and adornments Editor: In that context, it works beautifully. You see that restrained elegance, almost as stage-setting. The very formal language emphasizes how tradition and power have a theatrical element, all being carefully presented in just the right light. And yet it lacks bombast. Intriguing. Curator: Absolutely, and you get a feeling of this careful construction, this presentation. Even now, after centuries have passed, it carries echoes of that calculated spectacle. It is fascinating to see how carefully all elements seem integrated. Editor: I came in looking for grandeur but leaving with this idea that restraint can also convey an immense force. Thanks for shedding new light on the power of that title page.