Beëdiging van het genootschap Pro Aris et Focis te Haarlem, 1787 1787

This print, made by Izaak Jansz. de Wit in 1787, captures a pivotal moment in Haarlem's history using etching and engraving on paper. These techniques, rooted in skilled labor, involved meticulously incising lines onto a metal plate to hold ink, a process demanding precision and patience. The print depicts the swearing-in of the Pro Aris et Focis Society, one of Haarlem's three militia battalions. Notice how the linear quality of the engraving lends a crisp, documentary feel to the scene. The dense hatching creates a sense of depth, emphasizing the weight of the moment and the solemnity of the gathering. Consider the social context: these militias played a crucial role in maintaining order, embodying civic duty and the protection of property. De Wit's choice of printmaking allowed for wider dissemination of this image, reinforcing the values of the society and the importance of communal responsibility. The labor-intensive process mirrors the commitment of the citizens depicted, linking the artwork to broader themes of labor, politics, and civic engagement. Appreciating these elements encourages us to think about the artwork, and its ties to wider social issues.