Maskerade van de Leidse studenten, 1855 (plaat 1) 1855

Gerardus Johannes Bos created this print, titled 'Maskerade van de Leidse studenten, 1855,' using lithography, a process that democratized image production in the 19th century. It depicts students of Leiden University in historical costumes during a masquerade. Such events were common in student life, reflecting a romanticized view of the past. These masquerades allowed students to temporarily step outside the rigid social norms of the time. However, these displays of revelry were largely exclusive, reflecting the class and social status of university students. The attire of those on horseback, and those playing instruments denotes a strict social hierarchy. We might consider the impact of these exclusive events on the broader community of Leiden. The piece doesn't just capture a moment of celebration, but also subtly highlights the power dynamics inherent in the social and academic structures of the time.