Eerste versie van de titelpagina van Le Francq van Berkheys 'Kort bericht' over het bezoek van de prins en prinses van Oranje aan Leiden, 1788 1788

Jan Gerritsz Visser created this etching, the first version of the title page for Le Francq van Berkhey's 'Kort bericht', around 1788. It commemorates the visit of the Prince and Princess of Orange to Leiden. This work reflects the complex dynamics of gender, class, and political allegiance in the late 18th century. The two female figures, presumably representing the 'Maagd' or Virgin of Leiden, are depicted scattering flowers. It's a symbolic gesture of welcome and honor toward the visiting royals. The act of women bestowing honor highlights the performative aspects of gender roles in Dutch society, and their participation in the public sphere. However, their representation also reflects societal expectations, casting them as allegorical figures, rather than active political agents. The inscription emphasizes the city's allegiance to the House of Orange, reflecting the political tensions of the era, with the Patriot movement challenging the power of the Stadtholder. This image not only captures a specific historical moment, but also reveals how gendered and class-based performances were deployed to negotiate political power and identity.