Prins van Oranje vertrekt naar Duitsland, 1567 1567 - 1570

Frans Hogenberg created this print, "Prins van Oranje vertrekt naar Duitsland, 1567," using etching techniques. It depicts Prince William of Orange leaving for Germany in 1567. Consider the cultural and political context of the 16th century. The Netherlands was under Spanish rule, and religious and political tensions were high. William of Orange, a key figure in the Dutch Revolt, chose exile rather than submit to Spanish oppression. Hogenberg’s print captures this pivotal moment, showcasing the prince's departure amid a landscape filled with soldiers and a distant city. Prints like these were essential tools for disseminating information and shaping public opinion. The detailed depiction of William’s departure could evoke both a sense of loss and a call to resistance among the Dutch populace. The print invites viewers to reflect on themes of freedom, oppression, and the personal sacrifices demanded by political turmoil.