Dood van de gebroeders De Witt en de verminking van hun lichamen, 1672 1672

This anonymous etching depicts the gruesome death of the De Witt brothers, prominent figures in Dutch politics during the 17th century. The artwork, which dates back to 1672, depicts the brothers’ brutal murder, showcasing the violence and political turmoil of the time. The detailed scene, including the crowd and the executioners, creates a powerful and disturbing image, highlighting the tragedy of the event. The inscription below the image, "Spiegel van Staet, en Recht der Burgers," (Mirror of State, and Right of Citizens), further underscores the political context of the artwork, reminding viewers of the tension between power and the rights of the people. This piece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a significant document of Dutch history, providing a visual testament to a pivotal event that continues to resonate with viewers centuries later.