Vertrek van de Pruisen uit Amsterdam, 1788 1788

Cornelis Brouwer created this print in 1788. The composition is dominated by the movement of figures and vehicles away from a cityscape, towards the left. The stark black lines against the white paper give it a sense of urgency and historical record. Brouwer uses line to create depth and texture, particularly in the rendering of the trees and figures. The receding lines draw the eye into the distance, where a windmill and buildings stand as silent witnesses to the departure. The choice to depict the Prussians leaving rather than arriving suggests a commentary on power dynamics and national pride. The linear perspective, while somewhat naive, effectively conveys the scale of the event and the crowd's engagement. The density of the lines creates a rich, almost chaotic texture that reflects the complex political and social undercurrents of the time. This print serves as a study in how form can reflect and reinforce ideological messages.