This is a pre-study for a large painting commissioned for the Amsterdam Town Hall (1661) to hang in the Burgerzaal (Citizens' Hall). The picture glorifies the uprising of the local people against the Roman leaders. It draws a parallel with the uprising of the Dutch against the Spanish rulers. At the same time they showed that they viewed the prince of Orange, leader of the uprising, not as a figure chosen by God, but as someone elected by the people. He was a leader raised to prominence by the will of the people. Jan Lievens, born in Leiden, studied under Pieter Lastman (and others) in Amsterdam. In 1630 he worked together with Rembrandt in Leiden. Then he lived in London and Antwerp, until in 1644 he settled for good in Amsterdam. He was a successful portrait and historical painter.