Edwardigen Nederlander (Worthy Dutchman) (no title)

Date1780

MediumBlack and white line engraving

DimensionsOH: 10 1/2" x OW: 15 1/2"; Plate H: 10" x W: 15"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-86

DescriptionThe setting is the well populated seashore. The satirist has centered attention on a wealthy Dutchman, his money chest open in front of him. Just behind him a group of Dutch laborers are waiting to be paid. To the left several foreigners, led by a Frenchman and including an Englishman holding alliance treaties, bow in respect and with humble gestures indicate their desire for a share of the Dutch wealth, but receive only scorn.

To the far left three men converse before a chest inscribed "Oeconomische Brillen" (economic glasses) symbolic of the desire of all Dutchmen for greater economic gains.

Behind the Dutch laborers a woman attired in the dress of victory leads a group of colonial sympathizers toward a temple, one pillar of which is being replaced by a number of tiny figures. Within, a statue with staff and cap represents liberty.

Above the temple a radiant cloud formation holds six allegorical figures. Five can be identified as virtues: piety, truth, love, faith, and steadfastness.

In the right foreground, a lion, Holland, attacks England, in the form of a frightened dog, who is already under siege of the cock, France.

Dutchmen had long been investing funds in English banks, but the present political crisis made such ventures unwise. The satirist suggests that even though the English would prefer to have such investments continue, the Dutch might be wiser to invest elsewhere, particularly within the alliance or their own country.
ProvenanceEx coll: H. Dunscombe Colt.