De exercitie met schild en spies: de soldaat met de spies schuin in beide handen met de rechterhand bij het hoofd en het schild op de rug (nr. 3), 1618 1616 - 1618

Adam van Breen made this print in 1618, showing a soldier with a shield and spear. This image offers insights into the military culture of the Dutch Republic during the early 17th century. At the time, the Republic was fighting for independence from Spain, and military training was of great social importance. Van Breen’s print belongs to a tradition of military manuals and visual guides designed to standardize and improve the skills of soldiers. The detailed depiction of the soldier's posture, armor, and weaponry reflects the era's emphasis on precision and discipline in military exercises. To truly understand this artwork, we must look at the broader context of the Dutch Golden Age, exploring not only military history but also the economic and political factors that shaped the Republic’s identity. Through careful research, we can uncover the complex interplay between art, war, and society in this transformative period of European history.