Twee Germaanse krijgers, figura II 1614 - 1616

Curator: This print by Nicolaes van Geelkercken, dating from 1614 to 1616, is titled "Twee Germaanse krijgers, figura II," or "Two Germanic Warriors, figure II." It’s currently held at the Rijksmuseum. What’s your initial reaction? Editor: Stark and theatrical. The high contrast etching creates drama, yet there is an almost comical element to their elaborate outfits, all those feathers, horned helmet and conquered head under the one horseman. Curator: The artist is certainly making a statement about power, and conquest through these heavily armed figures. You notice the head of the conquered foe! Van Geelkercken crafted this during a period of burgeoning national identity, linking the present to romanticized, powerful Germanic roots. These aren’t simply warriors; they are symbols, embodiments of Dutch pride and resilience during the Twelve Years’ Truce. Editor: The use of line is quite intriguing. Look how it models their forms and drapery creating texture, which is further enhanced by the engraver's burin work adding tonal values. Do you agree the hatching conveys form effectively despite the monochrome palette? Curator: Absolutely. The dense lines intensify around areas of shadow and deepen the sense of grandeur. Although black and white prints were typical during this era because color printing was much more complex, black-and-white visuals were easier to reproduce, giving them broader public visibility. It would have appeared as though ancient warriors rode once more! Editor: Indeed. The formal presentation of the work, however, presents a constructed and idealized version of conflict as we see today. Van Geelkercken gives the warriors the confidence, nobility and might they clearly felt deserving of through visual means. Curator: Precisely. What’s interesting here is that Van Geelkercken's visualization serves a critical purpose in establishing a shared national narrative through symbols easily disseminated, contributing to the forging of national identity during a pivotal period. Thank you for that reading of Van Geelkercken’s visualization of national power and historical narrative! Editor: My pleasure, these details certainly shed new light on the composition and themes of this engraving!