Inhuldiging van Koning Willem II 1840 - 1841

This small print depicts the inauguration of King Willem II. The dominant symbols are, of course, those of royalty and state. The color palette itself—red, white, and blue—echoes national identity, a concept as powerful today as it was then. We see these colors not only in the flags but also in the decorative garlands, recurring motifs that speak to unity and celebration. These arrangements recall ancient Roman triumphal arches, structures designed to celebrate military victory and imperial power. Note how such displays evoke collective emotions—pride, loyalty, and a sense of shared identity. The visual cues activate a communal memory, a feeling of belonging that extends through generations. Even the architecture, with its imposing columns and arches, reinforces the grandeur and permanence of the state. Such imagery serves not only to document an event but also to instill a sense of awe and respect, perpetuating the symbolic power of the monarchy. Through such cyclical patterns, history continually rewrites itself, each iteration adding layers to our collective understanding.