Stadspoort in de vorm van een triomfboog, met Ionische zuilen c. 17th century

This undated print depicts a city gate in the form of a triumphal arch, rendered with ink on paper by an anonymous artist. Triumphal arches have historically functioned as powerful symbols of authority and commemoration, often erected to celebrate military victories or honor rulers. Consider how triumphal arches can transform urban spaces into stages for expressing power. The arch becomes a frame, shaping how people move through and experience the city. Here, the gate is flanked by classical architecture and populated with figures, suggesting a scene of commerce and daily life against a backdrop of civic pride. The presence of ordinary people interacting with this grand structure raises questions about who is included and excluded from these displays of power. This print serves as a reminder of the complex ways art intersects with politics, shaping both our physical and social landscapes.