Zinneprent ter ere van Willem III 1624 - 1672

Simon van de Passe created this print in the Netherlands, likely in the mid-17th century. It commemorates Willem Hendrick, also known as William III, Prince of Orange, and Stadtholder. The print is rich in visual codes reflecting the complex political landscape of the Dutch Republic. The allegorical figures surrounding William’s portrait represent virtues and territories under his rule. Angels and classical figures elevate him, reinforcing his authority. Note the inclusion of indigenous people, a nod to the Dutch colonial ambitions of the era. The Dutch Republic was a unique entity, a mercantile power navigating a complex relationship between aristocratic rule, emerging democratic ideals, and colonial expansion. Prints like these were tools in shaping public perception, reinforcing the power and legitimacy of rulers within this evolving social and political context. Understanding this artwork requires diving into the social history of the Dutch Golden Age; examining its political structures, economic drivers, and artistic patronage. Research into period publications, archival records, and studies of Dutch print culture can offer insights into the print's original meanings and its role in shaping the image of William III.