Uitleg bij de prent met de allegorie op het huwelijk van prins Willem IV en Anna van Engeland, 1734 1734

This is a printed explanation of an allegory, made in 1734 by Jacob Houtman Bernardszoon. It celebrates the marriage of Prince William IV of Orange and Anne of England. The text creates meaning through visual codes and cultural references rooted in the political and social context of the Dutch Republic. It emphasizes the alliance between the House of Orange-Nassau and the British monarchy. References to mythology and emblems of power, reinforce the legitimacy and prestige of the ruling elite. The lion, representing the Dutch Republic, pays homage to the royal couple, symbolizing unity and strength. The peacock symbolizes vigilance and protection. The text is self-consciously celebratory and progressive, aligning itself with the aspirations of a rising political power. Research into the history of Dutch-British relations, genealogical records of the royal families, and studies of emblem books from this period would certainly provide greater insight. Art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.