Uniformen van de Nationale Garde, 1796 1796

This detailed print from 1796 shows the uniforms of the Dutch National Guard. The anonymous artist captures not just clothing, but also social identity and hierarchy. Created in the wake of the Batavian Revolution, these uniforms reflect a shift in power and societal values. The revolution sought to replace the old aristocratic order with a more democratic society. The National Guard, composed of citizens rather than professional soldiers, embodied these ideals. Each uniform indicates rank and role, from officers to drummers, illustrating a clear social structure. Consider how clothing here is a marker of identity and belonging, reinforcing both individual status and collective unity. It’s worth noting that the uniformity itself expresses an erasure of individuality in service to the state. Think about the power dynamics implicit in these images. Who is represented, and who is excluded? How do these uniforms contribute to our understanding of power, identity, and revolution in the late 18th century?