De schuttersmaaltijd in de Voetboog- of St. Jorisdoelen te Amsterdam ter viering van het sluiten van de vrede van Munster, 18 juni 1648 1854 - 1879

Editor: This is "De schuttersmaaltijd in de Voetboog- of St. Jorisdoelen te Amsterdam ter viering van het sluiten van de vrede van Munster, 18 juni 1648", an etching and engraving by Henricus Wilhelmus Couwenberg made between 1854 and 1879, currently residing in the Rijksmuseum. It’s monochrome, full of figures... What symbols are at play here? Curator: This piece speaks volumes through its carefully arranged symbols of power and peace. Notice the prominent display of wealth and status through attire. Each character is a walking emblem, and the table laden with food amplifies that opulence. Ask yourself, what does feasting signify in such a context? Editor: Celebration, certainly! The end of war deserves a big party, and big paintings to remember them by? Curator: Precisely, and more. Consider the choice of St. Jorisdoelen, or the Civic Guard headquarters, as the backdrop. It's a stage setting! What memory is invoked by placing this celebration of peace *there*, in the symbolic home of armed defense? What continuity is the artist establishing? Editor: Hmm, perhaps a statement about being strong, even in peace. That this treaty was earned through their strength? Curator: Indeed. And look at the central figure. He's not merely celebrating; he's *holding* a symbol, an ornate goblet. What emotions are linked with victory? This work preserves a visual echo. Does that chalice hold just wine, or perhaps something more? Editor: Wow, I never thought about it that way – as holding emotions, almost like a memory capsule! Curator: Exactly. And by translating an earlier painting to print, Couwenberg invites viewers across time to partake in that cultural memory. Each line, each shadow becomes a thread connecting us to that historical moment. Editor: It’s a history lesson embedded in symbols – so fascinating! Thank you.