Vlucht van Walraven van Brederode, 1471 1844 - 1846

This print, made by Johann Wilhelm Kaiser in the 19th century, shows Walraven van Brederode escaping from prison in 1471. It speaks to the visual codes of nationalism and history painting that developed across 19th-century Europe, including in the Netherlands. Kaiser created this image during a period of intense nation-building in the Netherlands. The print depicts a heroic figure, a member of the Dutch nobility, escaping imprisonment. The dark, dramatic atmosphere and the focus on individual bravery evoke the Romantic sensibility, which was often used to portray historical events in a glorified manner. The choice of this particular historical event—Walraven van Brederode's escape—may reflect the cultural and political concerns of the 19th century, specifically the desire to create a sense of national identity through shared historical narratives. To fully understand its meaning, we might research Dutch history of the 15th century, as well as the history of Dutch nationalism and its use of visual imagery. The role of the Rijksmuseum is crucial here too, as it acts as a prominent institution in shaping national identity.