Erepoort op het Muiderplein, 1816 1816

This is a watercolor wash drawing of a triumphal arch at Muiderplein made in 1816 by an anonymous artist. It memorializes the return of Prince William I to the Netherlands after the defeat of Napoleon. The image constructs meaning through its visual codes, which deliberately evoke the imagery of the Roman Empire. Architectural features such as the Corinthian columns and the triangular pediment signal the power of the returning monarchy by associating it with earlier empires. Meanwhile, the inscription and wreaths connect this power to the specific moment of liberation. The figure on top holds symbols of peace and prosperity, reflecting the promise of renewed trade and political autonomy after years of conflict. We can find out more about this political moment through documents in national and municipal archives. The imagery of monarchy would have been especially important in a country that had only recently freed itself from imperial domination.