Plate 35: The Batavians Become Afraid and Begin Peace Talks, from The War of the Romans Against the Batavians 1611

Antonio Tempesta made this print, Plate 35 from the War of the Romans Against the Batavians, in the late 16th or early 17th century using etching and engraving. Here, Tempesta depicts a moment of negotiation during a conflict between the Roman Empire and the Batavian tribes in the Netherlands. By the time this print was made, the Dutch were in the midst of their own revolt against the Spanish Empire, a conflict that shaped Dutch national identity. The story of the Batavians became a relevant and potent symbol of resistance against a larger imperial power. Prints like this one played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and national identity during times of conflict. They were a means of visualizing history, myth, and political ideology. As art historians, we consult historical texts, political pamphlets, and other visual representations to understand the complex relationship between art, power, and society during this period.