Willem III landt aan de Engelse kust, 1688 1689

Pieter Pickaert created this etching titled "Willem III landt aan de Engelse kust, 1688." The print shows William of Orange arriving on the English coast in 1688, an event known as the Glorious Revolution. It presents a propagandistic view of the event, emphasizing a peaceful and welcomed arrival rather than an invasion. The image uses visual codes to legitimize William's claim to the throne. Flags prominently display the coat of arms of the House of Orange, linking William to Dutch national identity and the Protestant cause. The act of landing itself is depicted as orderly and unopposed, thereby suggesting popular support. Made in the Dutch Republic, the print reflects the complex political and religious dynamics of the late 17th century. The print presents a specific interpretation of the invasion, seeking to influence public perception and legitimize the new regime. To fully understand the print, one needs to study the political pamphlets, sermons, and other visual materials that circulated at the time. These resources can help us understand the social conditions that shaped artistic production, the role of art in shaping public opinion, and the politics of imagery in times of conflict.