Allegorisch gedenkteken voor Gerard Johan Nahuys en zijn echtgenote Catharina Walburg van Mansvelt 1782

Cornelis Brouwer created this print, an allegorical monument for Gerard Johan Nahuys and his wife, Catharina Walburg van Mansvelt, sometime in the late 18th century. As an allegory this print speaks to the values of the Dutch elite during the period known as the Dutch Patriot revolt. Here we see symbolic figures representing virtues and mourning alongside the trappings of wealth. Images such as these were designed to not only commemorate lives, but also to present a specific image to society. The Dutch elite sought to project an image of themselves as virtuous leaders, despite the growing social and political unrest. Consider how the piece reflects societal expectations around gender and class. The memorial focuses on the couple, but also prominently features representations of motherhood and legacy. In this way it underscores the importance of family lineage and social standing within the elite class. This print asks us to reflect on how those in power seek to be remembered and the values they choose to emphasize in their legacies.