Proclamatie Possibly 1813

This proclamation was made by Willem I, King of the Netherlands; its date of creation is unknown. The print’s composition is structured by a clear hierarchy, beginning with the prominent royal crest, descending to the large, bold typeface of the title, and continuing into dense columns of text. The use of typography here is strategic; the size and font announce the document’s importance and the authoritative voice of the King. The overall effect is to visually convey a sense of order and state power. This approach reflects a period grappling with new forms of governance and the challenge of legitimizing authority through symbolic means. Notice how the structured layout and formal language contribute to a sense of order and control. This reflects the broader cultural and philosophical concerns of the era, where attempts were made to categorize and control information through standardized formats. This work offers insight into how communication design played a role in shaping perceptions of power and legitimacy.