Beëdiging van het Regeringsreglement op de Grote Markt te Haarlem, 1787 1805 - 1808

Curator: Ah, another gem from the Rijksmuseum’s collection! This engraving by Joannes Pieter Visser Bender captures the “Beëdiging van het Regeringsreglement op de Grote Markt te Haarlem, 1787.” Created between 1805 and 1808, it immortalizes a key historical moment. Editor: It’s captivating. So much contained energy. I find myself drawn to the almost dreamlike quality it possesses despite the crisp, meticulous details. All those people, yet it feels still and observant. What strikes you first? Curator: The sheer formality, really. It's all so orderly—the architecture, the figures neatly lined up. It speaks to the era’s emphasis on structure, the layers upon layers of society visible even in the composition. The circular temple seems almost... precarious amid the rigid geometry around it. What sort of symbolic echoes resonate with you? Editor: The temple feels key. In this urban space, it’s set apart as something sacred. Temples offer structure that links to broader power—offering protection. Even the act of oath-taking implies seeking protection, isn't it interesting how power structures rely on these theatrical elements? Curator: Absolutely. It's a performance of authority, captured in ink. I suppose the engraver tries to convince the public that taking the oath grants protection. I do see some interesting visual tensions at work—how the buildings sort of 'weigh down' the composition, in contrast to that almost-ethereal sky above. I think Bender suggests more openness that that small city square suggests, despite all the rigidness of Dutch architecture and composition rules. Editor: And there is the suggestion of depth: people flowing out to infinity. I wonder about the stories of each person depicted in that space, the sense of community it suggests as well as perhaps, fear of isolation. Even in such an orderly print, the individual is at risk of getting lost. I sense some of that complexity. Curator: It truly is a beautiful rendering of how power manifests, publicly. And, like any strong artwork, the medium offers room for interpretation across the ages. A fine observation of Dutch culture frozen for all time. Editor: Leaving us all pondering the relationship between power, protection, the individual, and the city. That sounds like a journey worth taking!