Verklaring bij de prenten van de Groningse maskerade, 1864 1864

This print titled, "Explanation of the prints of the Groningen masquerade", was made anonymously in 1864, depicting the equestrian parade during the festivities surrounding the 50th anniversary of the University of Groningen. The University, founded in 1614, was a bastion of enlightenment ideals. This image represents the cultural and intellectual life of the Netherlands, one that promoted critical thinking and societal progress, despite the political and social upheaval sweeping across Europe. The masquerade, a celebratory event, allowed participants to temporarily shed their everyday identities and explore new roles. While seemingly a harmless festivity, the masquerade raises questions about the performance of identity, and the role of social class in the construction of culture. This image is of its time, yet prompts us to reflect on the ways in which identity and tradition are celebrated and expressed.