Alliantiemaaltijd te Amsterdam, 1786 1786 - 1792

Pieter Hendrik Jonxis made this print in 1786, depicting a feast in Amsterdam. It celebrates the alliance between the Dutch Republic and France. The image shows a grand, formal setting, emphasizing the importance of the alliance. The hall is lavishly decorated with chandeliers and ornate wall panels, pointing to the wealth and power associated with the event. The men are dressed in formal wear, while the use of a balcony suggests a public element to these proceedings. This artwork reflects the complex social and political environment of the Dutch Republic in the late 18th century, when international diplomacy was a matter of both statecraft and public spectacle. A study of period sources might reveal more about the individuals involved and their motivations. By looking into historical archives, we can uncover the layers of meaning embedded in this image.