Prins van Oranje in de slag bij Quatre-Bras, 1815 1817

Willem van Senus created this artwork, "Prins van Oranje in de slag bij Quatre-Bras, 1815," using an engraving technique. The monochromatic palette immediately sets a somber tone, reflecting the gravity of battle. The composition is structured with the Prince of Orange as a focal point, elevated on horseback amidst the chaos. Observe how Van Senus uses linear perspective to draw our eyes to the background, where masses of soldiers and the suggestion of buildings hint at the scale of conflict. The dense arrangement of figures and the stark contrast of light and shadow might remind you of Baroque battle scenes, yet there’s also a flattening effect, particularly in the rendering of the fallen soldiers. It's as though Van Senus is less interested in heroic individualism and more in the collective experience of war. The visual signs evoke an emotional response, prompting reflection on the weight and complexity of historical events. Consider how the formal qualities of the artwork shape our understanding of history.