Dimensions: height 145 mm, width 90 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This etching by Romeyn de Hooghe, made in 1674, is the title print for a journal detailing the French occupation of Utrecht and Woerden. De Hooghe situates the cities' misfortunes within a broader narrative of divine justice and political commentary. The upper scene depicts allegorical figures, while below, French soldiers wreak havoc, underscoring the suffering of the Dutch populace. Note the use of propaganda; De Hooghe portrays the French as aggressors, directly appealing to the viewer's emotions. This bias is reflective of the tense political climate in the Dutch Republic during the Franco-Dutch War. Through the graphic depiction of violence and chaos, De Hooghe creates a visceral connection to the events. This print does more than record history; it embodies the collective trauma and resistance of a nation under siege, inviting us to reflect on the human cost of conflict.
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