Volk van Israël steekt de rivier over 1552 - 1616

Frans Francken the Elder made this drawing, "Volk van Israël steekt de rivier over," with pen in the Netherlands, probably in the late sixteenth century. It depicts a scene from the Old Testament in which the Israelites, led by Joshua, cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The image creates meaning through visual codes and historical associations. Francken presents the Israelites as a military force, emphasizing their strength and determination as they advance into new territory. The influence of classical antiquity is clear. The architecture, costumes and military equipment recall images of ancient Rome, while the landscape in the background is reminiscent of the mountainous terrain of the Netherlands. This drawing can be understood in the context of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule in the 16th century. For the Dutch, the story of the Israelites resonated with their own struggle for independence and religious freedom. The historian can shed light on the complex ways in which art is shaped by the social and political context in which it is produced.