De geschiedenis van den Zwitser Willem Tell (...) 1820 - 1838

Here is a Netherlandish print, made by Christiaan Jacob Schuyling. It depicts the story of William Tell, a Swiss folk hero. This series of scenes encapsulates the legend of Tell, who was compelled to shoot an apple off his son's head. This act of defiance against the Austrian overlords ignited a rebellion in Switzerland, it is a moment laden with tension and symbolism. There is an emotional rawness to these panels. The artist attempts to highlight the courage and desperation inherent in Tell's story, but also reflect the broader historical context of resistance against tyranny. The narrative of Tell serves as a powerful allegory for the struggle for national identity and liberation. Its emotional resonance lies in its depiction of ordinary people standing up against oppression. In capturing this legend, the print not only tells a story but also becomes part of the ongoing construction of Swiss national identity. It also reflects the power of folklore in shaping collective consciousness.