Spotprent op koning Leopold, 1832 Possibly 1832 - 1836

This print by John Doyle, dating from 1832, depicts a satirical scene centered on Leopold, the King. Here, the figures are arranged in a game of "Hunt the Slipper," a seemingly innocent pastime. The slipper, however, takes on symbolic weight. Think of it as a metaphor for power and influence. The act of passing the slipper represents the shifting alliances and political maneuvers of the time. This seemingly simple game becomes a stage for veiled commentary on Leopold's interactions with other European powers, each vying for control and advantage. Consider, too, how this seemingly playful scene is reminiscent of ancient courtly rituals. The passing of objects, the gestures of subservience, and the underlying tension echo similar scenes found in medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings. It is a reminder that beneath the surface of social etiquette lies a complex web of power dynamics and unspoken desires, an image that resonates across time and cultures.