Opdracht met wapenschilden van Anna van Hannover en Willem V 1752 - 1753

This print, now in the Rijksmuseum, was made by Jan Caspar Philips in the 18th century. Its formal qualities point to the importance of institutional patronage. The image presents the coats of arms of Anna of Hannover and William V, reflecting the dynastic connections between Britain and the Dutch Republic. During this period, the House of Orange held significant political power in the Netherlands, and this print served as a form of propaganda, reinforcing their authority and legitimacy. The elaborate design, with allegorical figures and ornate detailing, speaks to the artistic conventions of the time and to the social function of art as a tool for projecting power. The print's inscription dedicates it to Anna and William, emphasizing their roles as rulers. Understanding the context in which the artwork was made—the political landscape of the Dutch Republic, the dynamics of royal patronage—requires careful consideration of historical sources, such as archival documents and contemporary accounts.