Hertog van Aarschot te Gent gevangen genomen, 1577 1588

This is a print made by Frans Hogenberg in 1577, showing the arrest of the Duke of Aarschot in Ghent. Such prints were widely circulated during the 16th century to inform the public and shape opinion during times of political and religious upheaval. Here, Hogenberg depicts a key moment in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule. We see armed citizens taking control, challenging the authority of the Duke, a representative of the Spanish crown. The image creates meaning through its depiction of action and popular uprising. Ghent, a major city in the region, was at the forefront of resistance, and this print captures the spirit of defiance that fueled the revolt. To fully understand this image, a historian would consult period pamphlets, official records, and other visual sources. By examining such materials, we can better understand the print’s role in shaping public perception of the revolt and the complex interplay of political, religious, and social forces at play. The meaning of this artwork is thus contingent on its historical and institutional context.