Pruisische wacht bij de Leidsepoort te Amsterdam, 1787 1787 - 1788

Rienk Jelgerhuis created this print titled 'Prussian Guard at the Leidsepoort in Amsterdam, 1787.' It depicts Prussian hussars camped outside of Amsterdam during a politically turbulent time in Dutch history. In 1787, Prussian troops invaded the Netherlands to restore the power of Stadtholder William V, whose authority had been challenged by the Patriot movement. This print offers a glimpse into the daily life of these soldiers, far from their homeland, enforcing political will upon the Dutch populace. The image shows a group of soldiers gathered around a fire, some playing music, others standing guard. Their expressions are difficult to discern, yet there is a sense of weary resignation in their postures, as though they are but instruments of a larger political game. What does it mean to be a soldier, enforcing a political will against the people? This print invites us to consider the human stories embedded in moments of political upheaval.