Spaanse Furie: gruwelijkheden door de soldaten, 1576 c. 1576 - 1579

"Spaanse Furie: gruwelijkheden door de soldaten, 1576" is an etching made by Frans Hogenberg, a Flemish artist known for his historical prints. This work captures the harrowing events of the Sack of Antwerp, a brutal episode during the Eighty Years' War. Hogenberg's print vividly depicts the atrocities committed by Spanish soldiers, offering a stark commentary on the ravages of war and religious conflict. The image is filled with scenes of violence and chaos, reflecting the widespread suffering inflicted upon the civilian population. Hogenberg’s work transcends mere documentation; it serves as a form of historical witness and moral indictment. How does this graphic portrayal of violence shape our understanding of the human cost of conflict, and how does it challenge us to confront the darker aspects of our shared past? Consider the emotional impact this image might have had on its contemporary audience, living in a world deeply scarred by religious and political strife.