Allegorie op het tweede eeuwfeest van het beleg van Alkmaar, 1773 1773

Johannes Petrus van Horstok created this etching in 1773 to commemorate the second centenary of the siege of Alkmaar. The image speaks to the socio-political context of the Dutch Republic in the late 18th century. The image is rich in visual codes and cultural references. At its center, a female figure, likely an allegorical representation of Alkmaar, is seated, holding a staff topped with a liberty cap, a symbol of freedom and independence. To the left, we see figures burning "Aristocratie" which is a clear critique of aristocratic power structures. The print reflects the rising tide of Patriot movement ideals, which sought to challenge the power of the Stadtholder and the aristocratic elite. By referencing the historical event of the siege, the artist draws parallels between the past struggle for freedom and contemporary political aspirations. The burning of "Aristocratie" symbolizes a rejection of the old order and a desire for a more egalitarian society. Understanding this etching requires historical research into the Patriot movement, the political climate of the Dutch Republic, and the symbolism used during that era. Only then can we understand the social and institutional context that shaped its creation and meaning.