Ontvangst van de prins van Oranje bij zijn intrede te Londen, 1688 1689

This print by Romeyn de Hooghe shows the arrival of the Prince of Orange in London in 1688. It's a fascinating piece of propaganda, made in the Netherlands. De Hooghe, a master of political imagery, uses the visual language of triumphal entries to portray William of Orange as a liberator. The scene is packed with people celebrating his arrival, a carefully constructed image designed to sway public opinion. But this isn't just a record of an event; it's a statement about power and legitimacy. The Glorious Revolution, as it came to be known, was a pivotal moment in British history, and prints like these played a crucial role in shaping its narrative. The image should be considered in the context of the Anglo-Dutch relationship and the role of the Dutch in British politics at the time. To understand its full impact, we need to delve into the archives, study the pamphlets and broadsides of the day, and consider the political climate in both England and the Netherlands. Only then can we appreciate the true power of this image.