Twee Germaanse krijgers, figura III 1614 - 1616

Nicolaes van Geelkercken made this print, "Two Germanic Warriors, Figure III", sometime in the early to mid-17th century. It presents a classical vision of ancient Germania, a land which the Dutch, then fighting for independence from Spain, identified with their own struggle for freedom. This image creates meaning through visual codes: the figures, while meant to appear barbaric, also have a classical muscularity, reminiscent of ancient Greek or Roman sculptures. The attire, or lack thereof, seems designed to appeal to a cultured, educated audience familiar with classical imagery and a northern European interest in the “noble savage.” The Rijksmuseum collection database and other historical sources provide further insights into the meanings that the image had at the time. Ultimately, the interpretation of art is contingent on social and institutional context and on understanding the conditions of its production.