Praalboog bij de Paardenmarkt te Vlissingen, 1772 1772 - 1773

Caspar Jacobsz. Philips produced this pen drawing of a Triumphal Arch at the Horse Market in Vlissingen in 1772. Such arches were temporary constructions, erected for a specific ceremonial occasion. This particular arch was likely built to commemorate a visit by a member of the Dutch Royal House of Orange, whose power had been restored in 1747. Arches were heavily laden with visual codes which referenced classical antiquity, invoking an association between the visiting dignitary and the virtues of Roman Emperors. The image at the centre depicts a scene from classical history, while statues of classical heroes stand either side of the archway itself. As such, this image provides an insight into the legitimating strategies used by the Dutch Royal Family in the late eighteenth century. Historians interested in understanding this tradition might consult sources such as contemporary newspapers, diaries, and municipal records. This can help us to understand how political and cultural institutions shaped the production and reception of art.