Rijtoer van koningin Wilhelmina in Den Haag c. 1890 - 1905

This photograph by Herman Deutmann captures Queen Wilhelmina's procession in The Hague. The sea of faces, the rigid lines of soldiers, and the architectural backdrop, all speak to the social dynamics of the time. The image is rich in visual codes. The Queen, elevated both literally and figuratively, embodies the hierarchical social structure. The military presence emphasizes the power of the state. It invites us to consider the relationship between the monarchy and the people of the Netherlands. Was the image created as propaganda? How did the people really feel? Historical accounts, newspapers, and other documentary evidence might reveal the social tensions simmering beneath this carefully staged display of unity. By examining such sources, we can move beyond the surface of the image and understand its role in the complex interplay of power, identity, and social change.