Nieuwjaarsprent voor de schutterij, ca. 1700 1690 - 1710

This is an anonymous print from around 1700, a New Year’s gift for the civic guard, or "schutterij," of the Netherlands. These guards were civilian militias, vital to the social and political fabric of Dutch cities. Here, the print depicts the schutterij, a diverse group united by their civic duty, proudly standing with their flag and weapons. They are a representation of the collective identity of the Dutch people, and the print celebrates their role in maintaining order and defending their communities. However, the print’s depiction of ‘manhafte’ – or manly – guards also reflects the gendered expectations of citizenship and valor, typical of the era. As you examine this print, consider how it presents an idealized image of Dutch society. It evokes feelings of pride, unity and strength but it also prompts us to think about who is included and who might be excluded from this vision of Dutch identity and civic life.