Ruiterstandbeeld van Wilhelmina van Pruisen 1789

This engraving by Barent de Bakker depicts a proposed equestrian statue of Wilhelmina of Prussia, made sometime in the late 18th century. The image embodies many of the complex political and social currents of the Dutch Republic during this period. Equestrian statues have a long history as symbols of power and authority. Here, the statue is intended to honor Wilhelmina of Prussia, the wife of William V, the Prince of Orange. This references the political tensions between the Dutch Patriot movement and the ruling House of Orange. As the Patriots sought to curtail the power of the stadtholder, Wilhelmina became a symbol of Orangist resistance. This print can be seen as a piece of political propaganda. Historical records, letters, and pamphlets from the period can give us further insights into how Wilhelmina was viewed and how this image participated in shaping public opinion. As we examine this work, we see how art becomes enmeshed with social and institutional power.