Lijkstatie van Willem IV, 1752, plaat 30 1754 - 1755

Jan Punt made this print in 1752, it pictures the funeral procession of William IV, Prince of Orange, in the Netherlands. The image presents a formal, almost ritualistic depiction of power and mourning. The procession moves with a solemn uniformity, emphasizing the collective representation of the state rather than individual grief. The robes, hats, and the very act of procession are visual codes that speak to the hierarchical structure of Dutch society at the time, with its distinct separation of classes and powers. This print isn't just a record of an event; it's a statement about the continuity of the Dutch state. Historical documents such as newspapers and pamphlets of the time help to contextualize the image. By studying these, we can understand how the death of William IV was used to reinforce ideas about national unity. The Rijksmuseum archive might also provide some insights into the making of the print, and the motivations behind it.