Haagse Kermis met de prins en prinses van Oranje, 1686 (rechterblad) 1686

This is a 1686 engraving by Daniël Marot, titled "Haagse Kermis met de prins en prinses van Oranje," or "The Hague Fair with the Prince and Princess of Orange". This detailed streetscape offers a window into the social and political climate of the Dutch Republic in the late 17th century. The image depicts a bustling fair in The Hague, with the royal family participating in the festivities. This was a time when the House of Orange was solidifying its power and influence, and the print serves as a form of political propaganda, aimed at popularizing the ruling family. Marot's work, with its precise lines and attention to detail, invites us to consider the role of art in shaping public opinion. Prints like these circulated widely, reinforcing the image of a benevolent and accessible monarchy. By studying such images alongside archival documents, we can gain insight into the complex interplay between art, politics, and society in the Dutch Golden Age.