Moord op de gebroeders De Witt, 1672 1672

This print by Romeyn de Hooghe visualizes the gruesome murder of the De Witt brothers in 1672, a pivotal moment in Dutch history known as the "Rampjaar" or Disaster Year. De Hooghe captures the raw, mob-driven violence that led to the brothers' deaths, reflecting the intense political and social turmoil of the time. Johan de Witt, the Grand Pensionary of Holland, and his brother Cornelis were lynched by an enraged mob in The Hague, fueled by political tensions and resentment. This work serves as a stark reminder of the instability of power and the fragility of social order, in a society dealing with class struggles. The print not only depicts the violence but also implicates the broader public sentiment. In its brutal portrayal, the work asks us to consider how collective emotions can be manipulated, leading to tragic outcomes. It stands as both a historical record and a cautionary tale about the dangers of political division and mob rule.