Ontwerp voor een allegorie op de onderdrukking van de Koophandel en Kunsten door Mars, en de hoop gevestigd op Lodewijk Napoleon c. 1752 - 1819

Jurriaan Andriessen created this ink drawing, "Ontwerp voor een allegorie op de onderdrukking van de Koophandel en Kunsten door Mars, en de hoop gevestigd op Lodewijk Napoleon," which translates to "Design for an allegory on the suppression of trade and arts by Mars, and the hope placed in Louis Napoleon." Made during a period of political upheaval in the Netherlands, the artwork reflects the complex interplay between war, culture, and leadership. The central figure of Mars, the Roman god of war, embodies the oppressive forces stifling commerce and the arts, and the drawing speaks to a society in turmoil. The inscription expresses a longing for a more enlightened era under Louis Napoleon, who was briefly King of Holland during French rule. Andriessen’s work not only captures a specific historical moment, but also speaks to universal themes of oppression, hope, and the enduring power of art and commerce in the face of adversity. It is a deeply personal expression of hope amidst chaos.