Zeeslag bij Lagos, 1693 1848 - 1855

Petrus Johannes Schotel created this drawing of the naval battle at Lagos in 1693, sometime in the first half of the 19th century. It’s currently held in the Rijksmuseum. Schotel’s maritime scenes reflect the Netherlands' historical identity as a naval power and a major player in international trade. But the work also came at a time when that status was threatened. The visual codes and historical associations in this image create meaning by referencing the Golden Age of Dutch maritime power, instilling a sense of national pride and continuity during times of change. The Rijksmuseum itself was founded in 1800, as one of a number of institutions devoted to building a sense of nationhood through art and culture. Historians use archival research and comparative analysis to fully understand how art engages with its social and institutional context. By understanding the institutions that shaped the production and reception of artworks like this, we can more deeply understand the meaning of art as a reflection of socio-political forces.