A Hollandse Pictura: Observations on the Title Page of Philips Angel's "Lof der schilder-konst"

Chapman, H. Perry

doi:10.2307/3780643

Cited by 2 publications

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“…In alternate versions, the garden was protected by a woman who is often depicted holding a spear, sword or displaying a hat that symbolised liberty. Like the Lion, De Hollandse Maagd (The Dutch Maiden) was an emblem that represented strength, vigilance and the independence of the fatherland (Chapman, 1986, p. 244; Peacock, 2019, pp. 68–127; Kobayashi-Sato, 2016).…”

Section: The Young Mother (1658)mentioning

confidence: 99%

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The art of propaganda: marketing nationhood through visual imagery

Freathy

Thomas

2022

JHRM

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Purpose During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic sought to project a positive global image centred around the principles of economic endeavour, moral stewardship and military resilience. By illustrating one way in which the country sought to communicate its international position, the paper aims to provide an early example of political diplomacy and reputation management. Design/methodology/approach Pictorial narratives provide an important but often underutilised insight into our cultural, social and economic history. As works of art were considered legitimate and authoritative forms of communication, their importance can lie beyond any aesthetic accomplishment. Using established iconographic techniques, this paper deconstructs and interprets the meaning contained within a specific genre painting, The Young Mother (1658) by Gerrit Dou. Findings Rather than being devoid of meaning, The Young Mother represents a narrative purposely constructed to symbolise the cultural, religious and economic character of the United Provinces. It celebrates success through global trade, innovation and enterprise while simultaneously reminding audiences of the country’s moral and spiritual foundations. Like the patriotic allegory of De Hollandse Maag protecting the sacred space of the hortus conclusus, the painting is a secular representation of the new Loca Sancta. Originality/value While acknowledging that The Young Mother has been praised for its visual qualities, this paper maintains that any broader political significance has been largely overlooked. The analysis and findings therefore offer original interpretations from which new conclusions are drawn.

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Section: The Young Mother (1658)mentioning

confidence: 99%

“…36. Its growth from a provincially important to nationally important symbol reflected the State of Holland’s dominance over the other provinces (Chapman, 1986, p. 241).…”

Section: Notesmentioning

confidence: 99%