Civilis en Cerialis onderhandelen op de afgebroken brug, 69-70 1788

Curator: This engraving, made in 1788 by Reinier Vinkeles, depicts "Civilis en Cerialis onderhandelen op de afgebroken brug, 69-70", an event rooted in the Batavian revolt against Roman rule. Editor: Immediately, I notice the stark division within the composition. The fractured bridge becomes a powerful symbol, physically separating the Roman general Cerialis from Civilis and his Batavian forces. There's an undeniable tension in this standoff. Curator: Vinkeles uses a neoclassical style to represent a moment of historical negotiation. But it's worth remembering that engravings like this also had a role in shaping national narratives, particularly in the late 18th century as concepts of nationhood were crystallizing. The Rijksmuseum is lucky to have this on view. Editor: Absolutely. It raises the crucial question: whose story are we being told, and to what end? Vinkeles lived in a time when the Dutch Republic had collapsed, replaced by the Batavian Republic installed by French Revolutionary forces. I am certain this scene resonated with the anxieties surrounding authority, foreign occupation, and the desire for self-determination. Curator: Precisely. And you can see this in the careful depiction of the figures. The Roman, Cerialis, seems regal in a toga, almost untouchable, whilst Civilis, surrounded by his compatriots, occupies a more ambiguous stance—simultaneously defiant and perhaps pragmatic? The bodies show a moment in time for conflict. Editor: What is striking is that you have two power brokers meeting, but so many foot soldiers are also involved. You have the regular men here and some appear war torn, tired, injured or scared. It brings to question the impacts of colonialism, a topic for current political theory, that is seen to stem from this original Roman and Batavian feud. Curator: These are really interesting aspects, and it reveals something about Vinkeles' technical skill and artistic license that is able to bring such commentary to this medium. Editor: Agreed. And with that, the work stands as a testament of political commentary that stems to this current moment in society. Curator: Definitely, a brilliant and thought-provoking engraving!