Gezicht op kasteel Salzdahlum (rechterdeel van onderste blad) 1694 - 1701

This print of Salzdahlum Castle was created by Romeyn de Hooghe in the late 17th century. The image depicts the baroque pleasure palace, commissioned by Anthony Ulrich, Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbuttel. De Hooghe's image creates meaning through a series of visual and textual codes. The imposing architecture and formal gardens point to the Duke's wealth, power, and sophisticated taste. The Duke wished to emulate the Palace of Versailles, but the Palace was never completed due to funds being diverted to military matters. The Duke’s cultural agenda can be understood by tracing the changing fortunes of his pet project. The theatre alluded to in the image was an important part of the Duke’s attempt to create a shining cultural centre. To understand this image better, a social historian might look at estate papers and court documents that reveal the Duke's priorities, but also architectural plans to assess how the image represents a reality. This print offers a valuable insight into the social, cultural and institutional history of the Dutch Golden Age.