Groningse maskerade (tweede groep), 1864 1864

This is a colour print from 1864, titled “Groningse maskerade (tweede groep)”, and it commemorates the entrance of Maria of Hungary into Groningen on the 20th of June 1545. The image shows a large group of people, many of whom are on horseback, dressed in elaborate Renaissance costumes. This print was made in the Netherlands, and it documents an historical re-enactment of the 1545 event. In the nineteenth century, historical pageants such as this one were popular forms of public spectacle, especially in countries like the Netherlands which sought to assert national identity and pride. It can be seen as an example of how communities selectively remember and represent their past. The historian can use newspapers, photographs, and official records to understand the motivations and messages behind historical re-enactments like this one. By restaging and reimagining historical events the people of Groningen sought to strengthen their communal bonds.