Inname van Lier door verraad, 1582 c. 1582 - 1585

"Inname van Lier door verraad," made in 1582 by Frans Hogenberg, presents a bird's-eye view rendered in precise engraving. The linear structures define the city's capture, with a stark contrast between the dense urban architecture and the invading forces. The composition is divided into distinct zones, each meticulously detailed to convey the chaos and strategy of the siege. Notice how the converging lines of the landscape and buildings direct your gaze to the central gate, emphasizing the point of conflict. This structured layout reflects a broader concern with order and control during a time of religious and political upheaval. The lines evoke a sense of urgency and movement, capturing a pivotal moment in history. Hogenberg uses line and form not merely to depict an event, but to explore themes of power, betrayal, and transformation. The stark, graphic quality of the print serves as both a historical record and a commentary on the nature of conflict.