Eed van de Griek 1829 - 1835

Karl Loeillot-Hartwig created this print, 'Oath of the Greeks' in the early 19th century. It reflects the period's widespread European fascination with the Greek struggle for independence from the Ottoman Empire. The image depicts a Greek man in traditional garb, sword in hand, taking an oath, with a woman kneeling beside him. In the background, we see references to the conflict: armed figures on horseback approach a walled city, and a ship is anchored at sea. It invites us to think about the politics of imagery. How did European artists portray foreign cultures and political events? Were these depictions accurate, or did they reflect the biases and fantasies of the Western gaze? How might these images have influenced public opinion and support for the Greek cause? To better understand it, researching the history of Philhellenism, the movement that supported Greek independence, as well as period costume books and conflict histories would prove invaluable. Ultimately, the meaning of art depends on its social and institutional context.