Fuentes verovert Doullens, 1595 1595 - 1597

This is Frans Hogenberg's 1595 print, "Fuentes verovert Doullens," now at the Rijksmuseum. It captures a pivotal moment during the Franco-Spanish War, itself part of the larger European conflict known as the Thirty Years’ War. Hogenberg, born in Mechelen, now Belgium, in 1540, lived in a time of intense religious and political upheaval. His prints often served as visual chronicles of contemporary events. This particular print depicts the Spanish siege of Doullens, a French town, reflecting the power struggles and territorial disputes of the era. The print not only shows a battle, but also exposes the stark realities of 16th-century warfare. Consider the experiences of soldiers, often conscripted from lower classes, facing immense hardships and risks. The image also hints at the impact on civilians, caught in the crossfire. Hogenberg’s work encourages us to reflect on how these historical conflicts shaped identities and power dynamics, and what that meant for people on the ground.