Paspoort van de Koning van Pruisen voor J.R. Thorbecke, familie en bedienden 1860

Editor: This is a passport, made in 1860. The Rijksmuseum attributes it to an anonymous artist, though several names appear on it, and it's a drawing, or perhaps a print, on paper using ink. The elegant calligraphy and coat of arms give it such a formal, official air. What does it say to you? Curator: It's interesting to consider this object not just as art, but as a political document, reflecting the social and institutional power structures of the 19th century. A passport, even for someone of Thorbecke's standing, visualizes how movement was regulated and citizenship defined. Editor: Thorbecke was pretty important, right? Didn’t he write the Dutch constitution? So why is the King of Prussia issuing his passport? Curator: Exactly! The passport illuminates the complex web of diplomatic relations and jurisdictions. It speaks to the power dynamics between Prussia and the Netherlands. Notice how it uses both French and German. Consider also how the Prussian King uses Thorbecke to elevate his own image abroad, even though the latter only asks permission to pass through Prussia. Does that make sense? Editor: Yes, it’s starting to! It highlights the sort of performance involved in international politics. So it’s less about who made it, and more about how it worked within the political landscape. Curator: Precisely! Think about how such a document reinforced notions of national identity and belonging. The King literally grants Thorbecke permission, symbolizing a very hierarchical view of society. Editor: That makes me think about how travel documents function today – passports, visas, the increased restrictions. History really does repeat itself. Curator: Absolutely. Analyzing art through its socio-political context offers profound insights. I’m glad we explored the implications of this travel document.