Allegorie op de troonsbestijging van koning Willem II, 1840 1840 - 1841

Hilmar Johannes Backer created this print titled *Allegorie op de troonsbestijging van koning Willem II* in 1840. It commemorates the ascension of King William II to the throne of the Netherlands. This artwork is more than just a portrait; it's a carefully constructed narrative about power, legitimacy, and national identity. The central image of King William II is framed by vignettes of significant battles and historical moments, each reinforcing a particular image of Dutch history and valor. Consider the implications of these curated images, who is included and excluded from this vision of Dutch identity, and the stories that go untold? The very act of memorializing the King's ascension speaks to the intricate relationship between the monarchy and its subjects, and to the creation of a shared national identity through carefully selected historical narratives. This print invites us to reflect on how power is visually constructed and culturally reinforced.