De beëdiging van het Regeringsreglement op de Grote Markt te Haarlem, 5 september 1787 1787

Vincent Jansz. van der Vinne created this drawing of the swearing of the Regulations of Government on the Grote Markt in Haarlem on September 5, 1787. The image captures a pivotal moment in Dutch history, reflecting the power struggles between different political factions. Here, the artist documents the ceremonial oath-taking, visually constructing the consolidation of power by the Orangists. You’ll notice that the military presence is heavy. The architectural structures—the Grote Kerk and the temporary pavilion—act as a backdrop that highlights the authority of the event. The drawing invites us to consider the role of art in documenting and legitimizing political events. It serves as a historical record but also as a carefully constructed representation of power. To understand this event more fully, we can look to archives, political pamphlets, and other visual materials. These give us insight into the complex social and political context that shaped the making and reception of this work.