Ontwerp voor de Eerste Bossche Wand: stichting van 's-Hertogenbosch door Hertog Hendrik van Brabant 1869 - 1925

Antoon Derkinderen made this design for the first mural of 's-Hertogenbosch with pencil. The image depicts Duke Hendrik van Brabant founding the city. Derkinderen lived in a time of rising nationalism and interest in Dutch history. He sought to represent a heroic, idealized version of the past. His art was deeply rooted in his personal beliefs, influenced by socialist ideas and a desire for social justice. He wanted his art to uplift and educate the working class. In his own words, "Art must be understandable to the people." In this scene the Duke is seated on horseback, overseeing the construction of the city. We see laborers, monks, and noblemen. The mural design celebrates the founding of 's-Hertogenbosch. It creates a narrative of progress and order with distinct social roles, but it also obscures the complexities and conflicts inherent in such historical events. As you reflect on this image, consider how Derkinderen uses history to shape a sense of national identity and social cohesion. Think about how the stories we tell about our past reflect our present values and aspirations.