Uniformen van de Amsterdamse schutterij van 1770-1783 1795

S.G. Casten made this watercolor drawing between 1770 and 1783, depicting the uniforms of the Amsterdam civil guard. During this period, the Netherlands was experiencing political and social tensions, with debates raging about civic participation and national identity. The uniforms represented here are not merely garments; they symbolize the wearer's role in maintaining social order and defending civic ideals. We see how costume becomes a signifier of class and civic duty. The uniforms act as a visual language, communicating rank and social standing in a society undergoing significant transformation. The artist captures the sartorial elegance of the guards, but perhaps also alludes to the complex power dynamics inherent in civic representation. What does it mean to dress the part of a defender of the people?