Nieuwsblad over de tocht van Willem III naar Engeland, 1688 1688

Art Historian: Here we have a broadside entitled "Nieuwsblad over de tocht van Willem III naar Engeland, 1688," or "News about the Journey of William III to England, 1688.” Jacobus Scheltus printed it in The Hague that very year. Curator: My eye is drawn to the dense blocks of text; it looks like a real feat of typography. It feels so immediate—almost urgent—in its delivery. Art Historian: Indeed, these news sheets, printed on paper with movable type and engraving, were a crucial means of disseminating information and shaping public opinion during a period of intense political upheaval. Curator: Looking at the inky impressions, you get a sense of the pace and intensity of production. Think about setting each letter and then printing enough copies to satisfy demand. You can feel the pulse of 17th-century print culture! Art Historian: Exactly. This particular news account documents William of Orange’s voyage to England, an event that led to the Glorious Revolution and his ascension to the English throne, significantly altering the Anglo-Dutch relationship and the balance of power in Europe. It gives us great insight into how political power can be shaped through printed propaganda. Curator: You know, it is compelling to imagine folks gathered around, poring over these words. The materiality here provides direct access to their hopes and concerns. Art Historian: It is a testament to the power of print that even today we are analyzing Scheltus' work as evidence for political discourse in 1688! Curator: Analyzing this broadside, I have to admit there is real power when examining not just an image or form but how printing as a technology delivers critical news. Art Historian: For me, considering the socio-political landscape offers critical depth when viewing something like this broadside; hopefully we all can agree this process reveals compelling narratives and perspectives about William's journey!