Willem V vertoont zich als Ridder in de Orde van de Kousenband op het bordes van Huis ten Bosch, 1752 1752

Simon Fokke created this print in 1752, titled "Willem V vertoont zich als Ridder in de Orde van de Kousenband op het bordes van Huis ten Bosch" which translates to "Willem V presented as Knight in the Order of the Garter on the steps of Huis ten Bosch." The print depicts Willem V, a member of the House of Orange-Nassau, presenting himself as a knight. During the 18th century, symbols of power and nobility were carefully constructed and performed. The print is less about an actual event and more about constructing an image of authority and prestige. Consider the emotional impact on those who viewed the print at the time. For some, it may have reinforced feelings of loyalty and national pride. But for others, particularly those from marginalized communities or those critical of the ruling class, it may have evoked feelings of resentment or alienation. The print invites us to think critically about the ways in which power is visualized and the emotional responses it elicits, reminding us that even seemingly straightforward depictions of historical events are layered with complex meanings.