Lijkstatie van Willem IV, 1752, plaat 41 1754

This print by Jan Punt, made in 1752, shows the funeral procession of William IV in Delft. As an engraver, Punt was an important figure in the cultural landscape of the Dutch Republic. His work offers valuable insights into the political and social climate of the time. The image captures the solemnity and grandeur of the event, emphasizing the importance of the House of Orange in Dutch society. The procession moves through the center of Delft. The choice of Delft as the location for the funeral procession is significant given its historical and symbolic importance. The city was closely associated with the House of Orange. The procession itself was a carefully staged event, designed to project an image of power and authority. To understand this print fully, we need to consider the political context in which it was made, using sources such as contemporary newspapers, pamphlets, and personal letters. These sources provide a deeper understanding of the role of the House of Orange in Dutch society.