Titus Bojocalis, derde hertog der Friezen 1618 - 1620

Pieter Feddes van Harlingen created this print of Titus Bojocalis, third duke of the Frisians, using engraving. The linear quality we see comes directly from the incisive action of the engraver's tool, cutting into a metal plate. The image presents a triumphant Titus standing over a defeated foe. It is a powerful depiction of leadership and strength, but also a testament to the skilled labor involved in printmaking. This was a crucial medium for disseminating information and shaping public opinion. The social context of this artwork lies in the rise of print culture, and its intersection with political power. The detailed lines and ornamental border attest to the artisan's skill, while the subject matter speaks to the values and aspirations of its time. The act of making here is more than just a technique, it is a statement about the society that produced it.