Begrafenisstoet van koning Willem I, 1844 (plaat 1) 1844

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print titled 'Funeral Procession of King Willem I' in 1844 using etching. This print captures the solemnity and spectacle of a royal funeral, a ritual deeply embedded in the social and political fabric of 19th-century Dutch society. Consider the historical context: Willem I, though a symbol of Dutch identity, faced challenges including the secession of Belgium and growing calls for constitutional reform. Last, through his art, situates us within this moment of transition and reflection on national identity. The procession isn’t merely a display of power, but a carefully choreographed performance of grief and continuity. The cloaked figures, the military escorts on horseback, and the elaborate carriages represent the diverse elements of Dutch society united, at least ostensibly, in mourning. Think about how Last uses line and composition to convey both the grandeur of the monarchy and the somber mood of the occasion. Ultimately, this etching serves as a poignant reminder of how even in death, leaders continue to shape our understanding of nation, history, and collective memory.