Allegorie op de oprichting van Oprechte Vaderlandsche Sociëteiten in 1787 1787

The "Allegorie op de oprichting van Oprechte Vaderlandsche Sociëteiten in 1787" (1787), an engraving by an anonymous artist, is a visual allegory representing the establishment of patriotic societies in the Netherlands. The artwork depicts a scene with a central column, surrounded by cherubs, representing the ideal of unity and dedication to the nation. The scene is framed by a circular border, symbolizing the circle of life and the enduring nature of the societies. This engraving from the Rijksmuseum is a testament to the cultural and political climate of the late 18th century Netherlands, highlighting the societal anxieties and aspirations of the time.