Princess Mary and William of Orange were proclaimed joint monarchs on 13 February 1689. This etching concentrates on the symbolism of monarchy, the couple crowned and dressed in ermine robes below a sumptuous throne canopy, receiving the bowing figure of Henry Compton, Bishop of London. Sceptre in hand, William points to the sun breaking through the clouds, its rays shining onto the crowds gathered below and heralding their reign as a new dawn. Below the couple is a parapet bearing medallions of earlier members of the houses of Stuart and Orange, flanking the royal coat of arms. Published in Amsterdam with letterpress text in Dutch, this broadside was intended to advertise to their subjects in the United Provinces the claim of William and Mary to the English and Scottish thrones.

Text adapted from Charles II: Art & Power, London, 2017