Spotprent op Engeland, 1652 1652

Crispijn van de Passe II created this print in 1652, a symbolic rendering of the conflict between England and the Netherlands. The dominant symbol here is the lion, traditionally representing England. Notice how it appears repeatedly, in various states of distress. Arrows pierce one lion, and others are subdued or manipulated by human figures. This evokes a sense of vulnerability. Lions appear across cultures and eras, from ancient Egyptian monuments to medieval heraldry, often symbolizing courage and royalty. Yet, here, the artist presents a fractured image of English power. The juxtaposition of the lion with figures who exploit or harm it speaks to the shifting perceptions and anxieties surrounding England’s political and economic strength. The dog with two heads is a figure of duplicity, while the musician stands for the attempt to cause discord. This print is a potent reminder of how symbols evolve, carrying layers of historical and emotional weight that engage our collective memory.