Tafereelen uit de regering van Willem II, koning der Nederlanden, groothertog van Luxemburg, enz. enz. enz. 1850

This lithograph was made by Jan Schuitemaker as part of a series of educational prints aimed at young people in the Netherlands. It depicts scenes from the reign of King Willem II, who ruled from 1840 to 1849. Prints like these were designed to teach children about national history and to instill a sense of patriotism. The images here show key moments such as Willem II's accession to the throne, the opening of a new harbor, and the construction of public buildings. These scenes are presented in a straightforward, celebratory manner, reinforcing the idea of progress and national unity under the monarchy. Looking at this print, it's important to remember that it was produced in a specific historical context, where ideas about national identity and the role of the monarchy were being actively shaped and promoted. To fully understand it, we can consult archival sources, political pamphlets, and other visual media from the period. By doing so, we can gain a deeper insight into the social and institutional forces that shaped both the production and the reception of this artwork.