Standbeeld de Stenen Roelandt 1772

Caspar Jacobsz. Philips created this print, "Standbeeld de Stenen Roelandt," capturing a statue of a figure central to local history. The print gives us access to the cultural and political landscape of the Dutch Republic. It’s easy to see this print as a straightforward depiction of a statue, but I encourage you to consider the symbolism embedded within. Who was this Roland, and what did he represent to the people of the time? Roland was seen as a symbol of civic pride and independence. Here, he embodies resistance against oppression, reflecting the historical struggles of the region against foreign rule. The statue itself would have served as a potent reminder of the values and aspirations of the community. As you stand here, reflect on how public monuments shape collective identity, and consider the stories they tell and the values they promote. Philips’ print invites us to ponder the role of art in preserving and propagating cultural narratives.