Wet van den 29sten september 1815, No. 49 Houdende instelling van de Orde van de Nederlandse Leeuw 1849

This document was produced by the Dutch government in 1815. It concerns the establishment of the Order of the Netherlands Lion. By the early 19th century, European governments were increasingly interested in establishing and maintaining social order. Institutions, such as a system of awards, were developed to reinforce hierarchies and manage social relations. The Order of the Netherlands Lion, created just after the end of French rule, was a way for the Dutch monarchy to reward its loyal subjects. This document represents an attempt to re-establish a Dutch national identity after a period of foreign occupation. It is intrinsically conservative, seeking to strengthen existing power structures. Examining the historical context of artworks like this, and the power structures that inform their production, is crucial for understanding their role in society. Resources such as government archives can help shed light on the values and priorities of the people who created them.