Vlucht van koning Jacobus II naar Frankrijk, 1688 1689

This anonymous print from 1688 depicts James II fleeing to France. It captures a pivotal moment in British history known as the Glorious Revolution, a time of immense political and religious tension. The image, with its focus on James's hasty departure, is laden with visual and cultural cues. The choppy waters and dark sky convey the uncertainty and danger of his situation. The presence of a French ship in the background signals his destination and reliance on foreign support. England, at the time, was wrestling with issues of succession, religious freedom, and the balance of power between the monarchy and Parliament. James's Catholic faith and absolutist tendencies clashed with the Protestant majority and parliamentary traditions, leading to his overthrow. Understanding this print requires historical research into the complex political landscape of 17th-century England. Sources like pamphlets, letters, and official documents can shed light on the social and institutional forces that shaped both the revolution and its artistic representations. The meaning of art is contingent on its context, and historical inquiry helps us interpret its significance.