Koning met scepter en kroon bij zijn troon 1825 - 1850

This lithograph by Jean-Louis Van Hemelryck, created sometime between 1825 and 1850, depicts a satirical scene of a king in a military uniform fleeing his throne. The text below the image reads "LE DERNIER DESCENDANT DU TRONE DE HENRY IV. Au moins j'ai conservé mon sceptre et ma couronne" which translates to “The last descendant of the throne of Henry IV. At least I have kept my scepter and my crown.” The image is a commentary on the decline of the monarchy, suggesting that even the last heir is forced to flee their throne. The use of satire, the king's awkward pose, and the image's title "Koning met scepter en kroon bij zijn troon" (King with scepter and crown by his throne), creates a humorous and thought-provoking work.