Huiszoeking c. 1874 - 1888

This print, titled ‘Huiszoeking’, whose maker we only know as Smeeton-Tilly, captures a scene ripe with social and political tension. ‘Huiszoeking’ translates as ‘house search’, and the image shows officials invading a domestic space. Made in the Netherlands, the print likely depicts the kind of intrusion that was all too common during periods of political upheaval. The woman seated seems to be the focus of the search, judging by the way the official is looking directly at her. The invasion of the house also feels like an invasion of privacy, with the male officials sifting through documents at the table. The portraits on the wall suggest a family with a history and status to uphold; the print shows the violation of domestic space for the sake of political ends. Historical documents, letters, and pamphlets from the period can give us insight into how such events shaped social life. Through these materials, we can better understand the intersection of private lives and public power.