Koning met op zijn kleding de namen van koningen door de geschiedenis heen 1727 - 1782

This print, "King with the Names of Kings Throughout History on his Clothing," was created by Emanuel Eichel in the 18th century. During this period, the concept of monarchy was being questioned, giving rise to new ideas about governance and the rights of the people. Here, Eichel presents us with a king adorned with the names of his predecessors, quite literally wearing the weight of history. The garment becomes a tapestry of power, privilege, and perhaps, the burdens of leadership. The king’s identity is interwoven with those who came before him, suggesting that his authority is derived from the past. Does this image celebrate tradition, or critique it? Consider how Eichel uses the visual language of clothing and the body to explore themes of power, identity, and history. Does it reflect the emotional and personal struggles inherent in leadership? Does the king look proud or burdened? This artwork invites us to reflect on our own relationship to history, and the ways in which the past shapes our present.