Life of Romeyn de Hooghe 1645-1708: Prints, Pamphlets, and Politics in the Dutch Golden Age

Romeyn de Hooghe was a Dutch Golden Age etcher accused of pornography, fraud, larceny, and atheism. This study reveals him as a successful entrepreneur, social climber, and Orangist spin doctor, exploring how artists, politicians, and hacks employed literature and the visual arts in political discourse.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 452 pages
Publication date: 17 April 2019
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

Romeyn de Hooghe, a prominent figure during the later Dutch Golden Age, stands as one of the most inventive and prolific etchers of his era. Renowned for his diverse range of artistic creations, including book illustrations, newsprints, allegories, and satire, de Hooghe is best known for his role as the chief propaganda artist serving the stadtholder and king William III. This comprehensive study, the first book-length biography of de Hooghe, delves into the intricate details of his life, exploring how his reputation was severely tarnished when he faced accusations of pornography, fraud, larceny, and atheism. Traditionally perceived as a godless rogue and more recently as an advocate of the Radical Enlightenment, de Hooghe emerges in this research as a multifaceted individual: a successful entrepreneur, a social climber, and a skilled Orangist spin doctor.

This study, situated within the context of seventeenth-century political culture and patronage, delves into the realm of spin and slander. It examines how artists, politicians, and hacks employed literature and the visual arts to shape political discourse and engage their audiences through satire, mockery, humor, and laughter. By examining the strategies employed by these individuals, the book sheds light on the complex interplay between art, politics, and public perception during a time of significant social and cultural transformation.

Through meticulous research and analysis, de Hooghe's life and career are brought to life, revealing the intricate connections between art, politics, and societal norms. The book explores his early influences, his rise to prominence, and the challenges he faced throughout his career. It also sheds light on his relationships with influential figures, such as William III, and the role he played in shaping public opinion during a period of political instability and cultural change.

In conclusion, Romeyn de Hooghe: A Life of Art and Politics in the Dutch Golden Age is a groundbreaking study that offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal figure in seventeenth-century Dutch history. By delving into the complexities of his life, career, and artistic contributions, the book provides a rich and detailed account of a man who played a significant role in shaping political discourse and public perception. This study is a valuable resource for scholars, historians, and anyone interested in the intersection of art, politics, and society during the Dutch Golden Age.

Weight: 1088g
Dimension: 172 x 240 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463725101
Edition number: 0