Le Feste des Trois Rois 1660 - 1708

Romeyn de Hooghe created this print, "Le Feste des Trois Rois," in the late 17th or early 18th century, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval in Europe. De Hooghe situates us within the context of the Franco-Dutch War, where the theater of the world stage is set for political satire. The print critiques Louis XIV’s expansionist policies and their impact on the Netherlands. By depicting the French king's hubris, de Hooghe highlights the themes of power, conflict, and national identity. There's a raw emotionality in his visual commentary on war's absurdities. Note the allegorical and symbolic language used to translate complex political issues into a visual narrative. As such it provides insight into the cultural attitudes and anxieties of the time.