Proclamatie van het Uitvoerend Bewind van de Bataafse Republiek, 1798 Possibly 1798

This proclamation by Steven Dassevael from 1798, printed in The Hague, presents a stark visual contrast with its dense blocks of text filling most of the space and a small emblem at the top. The composition is overwhelmingly textual, a format that emphasizes its purpose as a declaration. Dassevael uses the printed medium to engage with ideas of freedom and brotherhood in the Batavian Republic. The emblem, though small, visually represents these ideals. The artist seems to be exploring how printed words can shape and disseminate political concepts. He utilizes the formal structure of the document to argue for a balance between freedom of expression and responsible governance. The piece underscores the delicate balance between liberty and order, suggesting that true freedom requires careful management and oversight. The emphasis on text highlights its role in shaping public opinion and political discourse, making it clear that the form of communication is as important as the content itself.