Eerste Nationale Vergadering in Den Haag, 1796 Possibly 1796 - 1798

This drawing captures the Eerste Nationale Vergadering in The Hague in 1796. Although the artist is anonymous, this work provides insight into a pivotal moment of Dutch history. The drawing portrays the assembly hall, filled with men who represent the first national assembly in the Netherlands, a direct consequence of the Batavian Revolution. Yet, who had the privilege to participate in this new republic? The image speaks volumes about the limited scope of representation at the time. Consider the absence of women, people of color, and the working class. This all-male, largely white assembly underscores the complex and often contradictory nature of revolutionary change. The revolution was inspired by the ideals of liberty and equality, but these ideals did not extend to all members of society. This drawing invites us to reflect on the gap between revolutionary ideals and lived realities, and to consider whose voices and experiences are often left out of the historical record.