Karel V draagt de regering van Nederland over aan zijn zoon Filips II, 1555 1722 - 1784

Curator: Looking at this engraving, my first thought is one of formality. Everyone appears poised, but also tightly controlled. There's little sense of spontaneity, and that throne looks awfully imposing! Editor: Yes, there’s definitely a stillness to the scene. This engraving by Simon Fokke, dating roughly from 1722 to 1784, depicts the abdication of Charles V in 1555, when he transferred rule of the Netherlands to his son, Philip II. Curator: Ah, knowing it is an abdication ceremony suddenly makes the rigid posture understandable. See the cloak dramatically trailing behind Philip? It's a clear symbol of the weight of responsibility being passed down. It’s also interesting to observe how the composition leads the eye, drawing our focus from Charles to Philip as the new focal point. Editor: Precisely. Abdication ceremonies were, in essence, carefully orchestrated political theatre. Fokke, though working two centuries later, captures that sense of performance and inherent drama through his choice of perspective and staging within this detailed print. He wants to demonstrate legitimate transfer of power and continuity. Curator: Consider also those elaborate windows behind the figures – emblems prominently displayed at the top, a symbolic echo reinforcing dynastic claims, legitimizing the actions taken place here. It is very intentional! Editor: Absolutely. Every detail works to support the overall message of ordained power. It is no coincidence either that Fokke created this work within the era he did; he made a career producing reproductive prints— images used to celebrate certain historical memories. The image here is a direct representation of the power of leadership and an ordered and controlled transfer, ideas which were critical to public perception in the 18th century. Curator: The image is incredibly detailed and offers clues as to how power was thought to be inherited and maintained during these eras. The print reveals more with each glance. Editor: It truly does, highlighting not only a historical moment but the complex interplay between power, performance, and enduring symbolism.