Koninklijke Jager 1835 - 1850

Albertus Verhoesen created this print of a Royal Hunter. Notice how the figure is presented: upright with a firm stance, this reflects an emphasis on military precision and status. The subject is brought forward and centrally located on the page, but it also creates a sense of isolation, emphasizing the individual soldier's role within the broader military structure. The colour scheme is dominated by the deep greens and blacks of the uniform, contrasted with the bright buttons and yellow accents, drawing our eye and underscoring the visual language of rank and order. The rifle grounds the figure while creating a visual tension. The precision in depiction suggests an exploration into how the military can be a reflection of, and contributor to, national identity. Consider the formal constraints of this print; the subject is defined by structure and the calculated display of uniform and posture. This is less a depiction of a person than a symbolic representation of duty and order.