Gondobaldus, achtste koning der Friezen 1618 - 1620

Pieter Feddes van Harlingen made this print of Gondobaldus, eighth king of the Frisians. It's an engraving, a process that involves cutting lines into a metal plate to hold ink. This image is a fascinating example of how historical narratives are constructed. The print depicts Gondobaldus as a noble warrior, a symbol of Frisian strength. But how much of this is historical fact, and how much is myth-making? The inclusion of the Frisian coat of arms reinforces this sense of identity and heritage. Made in the 17th century, this print reflects a time when ideas about national identity and history were being formed and debated. The Rijksmuseum, as an institution, plays a role in shaping these narratives by collecting, preserving, and displaying objects like this. To truly understand this work, we can consult historical texts, maps, and other visual sources. These resources allow us to examine the complex interplay of power, politics, and identity in the art of the Dutch Golden Age. The meaning of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.