Clemency of Emperor Joseph II towards the Protestants, 1783
From the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
Allegory on the edict of Joseph II regarding religious freedom for Protestants, March 1783. The emperor stands on the podium of a temple and is crowned by the Spirit of Wisdom. Next to the emperor are the personifications of Tolerance, Benevolence and Prudence. In front of the emperor kneel (Hungarian) Protestant subjects who offer their hearts to him in gratitude. On the right, Tyranny and Ignorance are driven away by Religious Freedom in armor with a flaming sword and shield inscribed 'Aurea libertas'. In the background, a Protestant church under construction. At the bottom, the title, dedication and coat of arms of the emperor and his sister Maria Christina of Austria. Center bottom marked: Trial proof. A sheet with the explanation of the scene accompanies the print.
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s own description
