Tableau vivant ter gelegenheid van het huwelijk van koningin Wilhelmina in 1901 1871 - 1906

Pieter de Josselin de Jong created this watercolor to commemorate Queen Wilhelmina's wedding in 1901. It offers a glimpse into the cultural values and societal expectations surrounding monarchy and national identity at the time. The tableau vivant, or "living picture," was a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These recreations of historical or allegorical scenes often emphasized idealized visions of the past, reinforcing existing social hierarchies. Here, the artist evokes a sense of tradition and ceremony, with figures posed in classical garb and a symbolic crown suspended overhead. Consider how the artist uses soft colors and gentle brushstrokes to create a dreamlike atmosphere. The figures appear ethereal and timeless, suggesting a desire to transcend the mundane realities of everyday life through the spectacle of royal marriage. At the turn of the century, the monarchy was seen as a symbol of national unity and pride, embodying the hopes and aspirations of the Dutch people. This image reminds us of the power of visual culture to shape and reinforce collective identities during moments of national significance.