Vuurwerk te Utrecht ter ere van Willem IV, 1747 1747

This print, made in Utrecht in 1747, commemorates a fireworks display put on by local students in honor of Willem IV. The image presents a fascinating insight into the role of public spectacle in cementing political power. The print’s visual codes and cultural references are deeply rooted in the historical context of the Dutch Republic. Following a period without a Stadtholder, Willem IV assumed the position, and this event was loaded with political significance. The fireworks, sponsored by students, represent a powerful institution signaling its support for the new leader, reinforcing his legitimacy through symbolic display. The layers of classical and biblical imagery were designed to show the virtues of the new regime. Understanding this print requires us to investigate the history of the Dutch Republic, the dynamics of its political institutions, and the symbolic language of its public ceremonies. Research into archival records, pamphlets, and other visual materials from the period can shed light on the social conditions that shaped the production and reception of this artwork.