Gezicht op de vestingswallen in Naarden 1798 - 1837

Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar made this print of the fortifications at Naarden, likely in the early 19th century. At first glance, it seems a straightforward landscape. But the scene reflects a society grappling with war, and the way that military infrastructure shapes civilian life. Consider the Dutch Republic's history: constantly at war with European powers, it relied on advanced fortifications like these. What is the social impact of this kind of fortification? Bagelaar's print seems to reflect on this question. We see people fishing and boating by the walls, their everyday lives intertwined with the imposing structure. The image thus raises interesting questions about security, liberty, and the role of the state. Looking at prints like these, historians consult military records, city plans, and other documentary evidence. By piecing together different perspectives, we can explore the complex social and institutional contexts that shaped artistic production.