Pruisische troepen op de Neude te Utrecht bij het verlaten van de stad, 16 september 1787 Possibly 1787 - 1801

Jacobus Buys made this print depicting Prussian troops leaving Utrecht on September 16, 1787. The print captures a key moment in Dutch history, reflecting the political tensions and foreign interventions of the late 18th century. The image shows Prussian soldiers marching out of the city while animated figures look on. This event was part of the Prussian intervention to restore the power of the Stadtholder, Prince William V, against the Patriot movement which sought democratic reforms. The level of detail, particularly in the soldiers' uniforms and the architectural background, offers insights into the military and urban environment of the time. Buys likely aimed to document and comment on the political and social dynamics of the Dutch Republic. By studying period documents, political pamphlets, and military records, we can better understand the context of this image. It serves as a reminder that art is often intertwined with political events.