No Monarchy, No Popery c. 1690

This print was made by Romeyn de Hooghe, a Dutch artist, and it reflects the political climate of the late 17th century. The title, "No Monarchy, No Popery," gives us an insight into the anti-Catholic sentiments prevalent at the time. De Hooghe uses visual codes to narrate a political event. The scenes depict the flight of James II of England, against the backdrop of rising Protestant resistance. The imagery is a commentary on the social structures of its time, clearly advocating for a shift away from monarchical and Catholic rule. The Dutch Republic, where this print was made, was a hub of Protestant thought, and this work reflects the progressive ideals of the time. As historians, we delve into pamphlets, political tracts, and other visual sources to fully understand works like these. Art is rarely made in a vacuum. It’s contingent on a complex interplay of social forces and institutional powers.