Twee portes-cochères 1673 - 1752

Daniël Marot created this print of two carriage entrances, or "Twee portes-cochères," during an era defined by rigid social hierarchies and the opulent tastes of the aristocracy. Marot, as court architect to William of Orange, significantly shaped the aesthetic landscape of the Dutch Republic and beyond. His designs weren't just about architecture; they were statements of power and status in a society deeply divided by class. Notice how the entrances command respect through their imposing size and intricate detailing. These weren't doors for everyone. The carriage entrance, in particular, speaks volumes about the exclusivity of the elite. Consider how architectural design subtly reinforces societal norms and expectations. Marot’s work prompts us to reflect on how spaces are designed to include some, while inherently excluding others.