Vertrek van Maria de' Medici 1639

This anonymous print at the Rijksmuseum, titled "Departure of Maria de' Medici," powerfully uses engraving to convey a scene of maritime drama. Notice how the composition is dominated by the roiling sea, its waves rendered with dense, rhythmic lines that convey both movement and turbulence. These lines are not just descriptive; they structure the emotional impact of the scene, creating a sense of unease and precariousness. The ships, although central to the event, are dwarfed and tossed about by the waves, suggesting a loss of control. The use of linear perspective is notable, with the ships receding into the distance, yet the density of the engraving flattens the space, heightening the sense of claustrophobia. The contrast between the turbulent sea and the more serene sky above acts as a visual metaphor for the challenges faced by Maria de' Medici. The scene, through its formal qualities, transcends a mere historical depiction, becoming a meditation on power, instability, and the forces of nature.