Koets van de Prins, die van de oprijlaan van Huis ten Bosch rijdt 1855

Charles Rochussen made this watercolor titled 'Koets van de Prins, die van de oprijlaan van Huis ten Bosch rijdt'. During Rochussen's time, the Netherlands was undergoing significant social and political changes, which influenced his artistic perspective. As you observe the depiction of the prince’s carriage, consider the class distinctions inherent in this scene. On one side, the elite, possibly aristocrats, are showcased in their finery, while the commoners remain unseen, or perhaps they are part of the blurred background. Rochussen, through his art, often reflected on the nuances of Dutch society, subtly addressing the themes of inequality and social decorum. His art invites us to reflect on the varying degrees of access and visibility within society, urging us to question who is seen, who is not, and why.