Moord op Floris V, 1296 1782 - 1784

Simon Fokke created this etching of the ‘Murder of Floris V, 1296’ sometime during his lifetime between 1712 and 1784. The artwork captures a violent episode from Dutch history, reflecting the 18th-century fascination with historical narratives. Fokke's representation of the murder of Floris V is not just a depiction of a historical event; it is steeped in the politics of identity and power. Note how the figures are rendered: who is centered, who is active, and who is passive. These choices reflect the artist's perspective and the societal values of his time. The image is charged with a sense of drama and moral judgment. How does Fokke want us to feel about this event? As viewers, we are invited into a story of betrayal and loss. The emotional intensity of the scene—the chaos, the violence, and the vulnerability—evokes a strong reaction, reminding us of the human cost of political intrigue. This etching encourages us to reflect on how we construct our heroes and villains through the stories we tell.