Zitting van het Engelse parlement, 1708 1706 - 1708

This print, titled “Zitting van het Engelse parlement, 1708,” depicts a session of the English Parliament in 1708. It was made by an anonymous artist. The piece captures the political climate in England following the Act of Union in 1707, which formally united England and Scotland. The print offers a glimpse into the power structures of the time, revealing the exclusive nature of the British government. The absence of women and people of color underscores the limited scope of representation during this period. As you consider this artwork, reflect on how it mirrors the societal norms of its time and laid the foundation for ongoing discussions about inclusivity. In what ways does the composition reinforce the concept of power and privilege?