Intocht van Don Juan te Brussel, 1577 1613 - 1615

This print, made in 1577 by an anonymous artist, depicts Don Juan's entry into Brussels. It's an engraving, a process where lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The dense network of lines creates a wealth of visual information, documenting the architecture of the city, the figures of the soldiers, and the texture of the landscape. Engraving was a highly skilled craft, requiring years of training to master the techniques of line weight, cross-hatching, and perspective. It was also a relatively laborious process, demanding precision and patience. In this case, the print wasn't just an artistic statement, but a form of mass communication, used to disseminate news and political commentary. Seen in this light, the print provides insight into the social and political dynamics of the time, revealing the power of images to shape public opinion. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly simple works of art can be deeply embedded in history, reflecting the complex interplay of materials, making, and context.