Eerewacht der Koningin 1840 - 1841

This print, titled "Eerewacht der Koningin" or "Honour Guard of the Queen" was made anonymously in the Netherlands using an etching technique. It depicts a mounted soldier in full regalia. The image reflects the Netherlands' complex political landscape of the time, likely the late 18th or early 19th century. Following a period of French rule, the Dutch monarchy was restored in 1813. The print can be seen as a symbol of national pride and allegiance to the newly reinstated House of Orange. The very existence of this "honour guard" reinforces the power structures of the era. Understanding this print requires a look into the social and political history of the Netherlands, including institutional histories of the military and the monarchy. Through careful research into the visual culture of the period we can better appreciate its significance.