Bekendmaking van de begrafenisplechtigheid van prinses Louise van Oranje-Nassau, 1819 Possibly 1819

This announcement of the funeral of Princess Louise of Orange-Nassau was printed in The Hague in 1819 by the Giunta d'Albani Brothers. It’s a fascinating piece of social history, revealing how even in death, royal power was carefully managed and presented to the public. The proclamation, issued by the city's mayors, isn’t just about informing the public; it’s about controlling the narrative and maintaining order. Notice the emphasis on preventing "irregularities" caused by carriages rushing to follow the funeral procession. This wasn’t merely about logistics. It was about ensuring a dignified and controlled display of grief and respect, reinforcing the authority of the monarchy. Consider the time: the Netherlands had just emerged from the Napoleonic era, and the House of Orange was re-establishing its rule. Every public event, including a royal funeral, became an opportunity to solidify their power and project an image of stability. To truly understand this announcement, we might consult local archives, records of city governance, and accounts of public life in the Netherlands at the time. Only then can we fully appreciate its role in the complex social and political landscape of the era.