Schutters leggen de eed af te Utrecht, 1786 after 1786

This etching by Carel Frederik Bendorp, titled "Schutters leggen de eed af te Utrecht" (1786) depicts the oath-taking ceremony of the "Schutters," a civic guard unit in the Dutch city of Utrecht. The artwork, held in the Rijksmuseum, captures a moment of civic engagement, showcasing a large gathering of men in a grand hall, with the inscription revealing the date of the event as March 15th, 1786. Bendorp's detailed portrayal of the scene offers a glimpse into 18th-century Dutch society, emphasizing the significance of the civic guard and its role in maintaining order and security within the city. The etching, with its intricate lines and composition, is a testament to the artist's skill in representing historical events with a sense of realism.