Coronation Procession of Charles II Through (from John Ogilby's "The Entertainment of...Charles II," London, 1662) 1662

Wenceslaus Hollar created this print, “Coronation Procession of Charles II” in London, 1662, as part of John Ogilby's commemorative volume. It depicts Charles II’s procession, marking his restoration to the throne after years of exile. This artwork is a window into the rigid social hierarchies of 17th-century England. Hollar meticulously represents the various ranks and roles participating in the procession, from royalty and nobility to guards and footmen. Think about how each figure’s clothing, posture, and position in the procession were signifiers of their social standing. Charles II's restoration was not merely a political event; it was a moment laden with hopes, anxieties, and the complex dynamics of class and power. While the print celebrates the monarchy's return, it also subtly reflects the social stratifications that defined the era. Consider how such spectacles reinforced existing power structures, shaping the identities of both the rulers and the ruled.