Einde van het spel om Schenckenschans, 1635-1636 1636

Curator: The immediate impression this engraving leaves is quite somber. A subdued atmosphere hangs over the figures gathered, their expressions intense. It makes me wonder, what story does it tell? Editor: The print, "Einde van het spel om Schenckenschans" ("End of the game for Schenckenschans") produced around 1636, captures a significant moment in the 17th century. It uses engraving to illustrate this scene of political and military maneuvering. Curator: So, tell me more about these political maneuverings— who are these people and why does their grim determination radiate from the print? The central figures huddled around the table— I assume that’s where the game is taking place. Editor: The engraving references the siege of Schenckenschans and allegorically shows the figures as involved in a game. Note the barrel on the left which carries Catholic symbols that represent the Catholic Church. Then note those leaning in – players negotiating terms or perhaps plotting strategy. Even the collapsed figure at the base alludes to some cost. Curator: The Catholic imagery really jumps out! In these political negotiations, it seems the barrel alludes to hidden intentions and the nature of how war, particularly in religion, destroys innocents caught in its game. Are my intuitions here correct? Editor: Precisely! It serves as an emblem of the Catholic faith and how figures can benefit and exploit religion. The artist uses symbolism here not just as decoration, but as a critique. Even those shadowy figures at the end peering behind a window act as onlookers. Curator: The figures definitely convey different things to me as they engage in dialogue on that battlefield, and that bottom inscription and other various blocks of text seem to imply varying things and different POVs regarding all these various players and characters. Editor: These elements give more depth. As the work is also baroque-styled, the dramatic scene and strong emotional content all try to communicate powerful messaging to its contemporary audience. This moment has clearly weighed upon the people and culture of the time. Curator: The interplay between these formal elements and those historical and religious motifs allows it to carry so much more narrative weight. I keep wondering about that lone barrel…. Editor: Seeing how those figures use symbolism offers much about not only war strategy, but strategy when playing with culture. I hope others consider the figures playing this game and not only remember historical context, but reflect on today’s use of symbols.