Soldaat met gestrekte armen houdend zijn musket in zijn rechterhand en zijn furket in zijn linkerhand, ca. 1645 1645 - 1647

Around 1645, Petrus Rucholle created this print of a soldier with outstretched arms holding his musket and furket. The image of the armed soldier was a powerful symbol in the Netherlands during the 17th century. This was a time of great social and political upheaval, as the Dutch fought for independence from Spain. The military was central to Dutch society, and soldiers were often seen as heroes and protectors of the nation. The image of the soldier, therefore, resonated deeply with the Dutch people. It also carried connotations of masculinity in this heavily militarized society. Rucholle's print reflects the militaristic culture of the Netherlands. Through careful research into social history, we can begin to understand the complex meanings embedded in this image. By exploring archives and libraries, we can uncover the social conditions that gave rise to such imagery.