Valckenier (1623-1680), who was born into a family of burgomasters, married the daughter of a rich merchant who traded with Russia and Sweden. He was one of the most powerful politicians in 17th century Amsterdam; he served 9 terms as burgomaster. Although he was initially loyal to grand pensionary Johan de Witt, he sided with De Witt's opponent stadholder Willem III after the former was killed in 1672. However, when Willem became too powerful Valckenier turned against him, too. Valckenier's reputation was that of an ambitious, crafty, and unpleasant man; there was even a common rhyme about his monstruous selfishness.