Prins van Oranje trekt over de Maas, 1568 1568 - 1570

In 1568, Frans Hogenberg captured the crossing of the Maas by the Prince of Orange in this engraving. Dominating the scene are ranks of soldiers bearing flags, symbols of allegiance and power in times of conflict. These flags, fluttering above the troops, resonate with ancient Roman vexilla, emblems that similarly guided and unified legions across vast territories. Just as the Roman standards embodied the might and destiny of an empire, these flags represent the aspirations of a people yearning for freedom and self-determination. Consider the psychological weight of these symbols: they are not merely pieces of cloth, but vessels of collective memory and hope. Their presence evokes a powerful emotional response, engaging the viewer on a subconscious level with the timeless drama of human struggle and the enduring quest for liberty. The image of the flag, enduring and ever-changing, is continuously reshaped, reflecting the shifting sands of history.