David van Bourgondië, Bisschop van Utrecht, ontneemt Reinoud II van Brederode de versierselen van de orde van het Gulden Vlies, 1470 1785 - 1787

This pen and ink drawing by Jacobus Buys depicts David of Burgundy, the Bishop of Utrecht, stripping Reinoud II of Brederode of the insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece in 1470. Buys, working in the late 18th century, was deeply involved in the Patriot movement, a period of political unrest and calls for democratic reforms in the Dutch Republic. The drawing captures a moment of high drama and political intrigue from the late Middle Ages. Reinoud II, surrounded by onlookers, is confronted by the imposing Bishop, who removes the chain of the Order of the Golden Fleece from his neck. The act of stripping Reinoud of his honors is heavy with meaning, marking a profound loss of status and belonging. The image resonates with themes of power, justice, and the potential for abuse within hierarchical structures. This is especially interesting because the artist was interested in hierarchies of power in his own time. The drawing then, invites us to reflect on how symbols of power and status can be both conferred and taken away, reflecting the shifting sands of political fortune.