Grafmonumenten voor admiraal Isaac Sweers en admiraal Abraham van der Hulst in de Oude Kerk te Amsterdam 1726

This undated print depicts the grave monuments of Admirals Isaac Sweers and Abraham van der Hulst, located in Amsterdam’s Oude Kerk. The monuments immortalize Dutch naval heroes of the 17th century, a period when the Netherlands was a major maritime power. These monuments are more than just memorials; they reflect the values and aspirations of Dutch society at the time. Sweers and Van der Hulst were celebrated for their courage and leadership, embodying ideals of masculinity intertwined with national pride. What I find striking is the level of detail and the use of symbolism. Putti, maritime objects, and heroic figures create a narrative that highlights the Admiral's bravery. By immortalizing these figures, the monuments contributed to the construction of a national identity rooted in maritime success. They acted as a reminder of the human cost of war, whilst also showcasing national identity and collective memory.