Willem-Frederik-George-Lodewijk, Prins van Oranje / Veld-maarschalk van het Hollandsche leger tegen de muiters 1825 - 1838

This print depicts Willem Frederik George Lodewijk, Prince of Orange and Field Marshal of the Dutch Army, and was produced by Erve Wijsmuller in Amsterdam. Equestrian portraits have a long history of associating leaders with power, and are themselves part of that history. This print depicts Willem as a strong military leader, quelling internal dissent. But consider the context of the time it was made. What was the nature of this dissent? Who were the so-called "mutineers"? These terms carry implicit judgments. As a historian, I'm interested in understanding how images like these function within specific social and political landscapes. By exploring archives, newspapers, and other period documents, we can decode its original meaning and reflect on its lasting impact. This print is not just a picture; it's a historical document that reflects the complex interplay between art, power, and society.