Jonge prins en zijn oom 1778 - 1785

This print, titled "Young Prince and his Uncle," was created by Noach van der Meer the Younger. This intimate domestic scene can tell us a great deal about the cultural values of the Netherlands at the time. It is likely from the late 1700s, when the Dutch Republic was in decline and the House of Orange was attempting to consolidate power. The setting reflects wealth and status and invites us to consider how notions of family and class were being promoted at the time. Consider the role of art as propaganda, shaping public opinion about leadership. To interpret such imagery, we must turn to historical sources such as political pamphlets, newspapers, and other visual and textual materials. Researching the history of the Dutch Republic and the House of Orange will give us a deeper understanding of the meaning and purpose of the artwork.