Beleg van Montauban door Lodewijk XIII, 1621 1621 - 1623

This is an engraving by Frans Hogenberg, depicting the siege of Montauban by Louis XIII in 1621. It offers a bird's-eye view of the siege, a cartographic representation of a pivotal event in French history. Made in the Netherlands, the print reflects the Dutch Republic's interest in European politics, especially conflicts involving religion and power. This detailed depiction serves not only as a historical record but also as a form of political communication, influencing public opinion and constructing narratives around these events. The visual codes such as the arrangement of troops, fortifications, and geographical features, are meant to convey strategic information but also to shape perceptions of power, order, and control. Understanding this artwork requires delving into the history of cartography, the politics of the Dutch Republic, and the religious conflicts of 17th-century Europe. Resources in national archives, libraries, and museums help to uncover its complex meanings. The image reminds us that art is always deeply embedded in its time, shaped by social and institutional forces.