Ruiters rusten bij een tent 1655 - 1667

Romeyn de Hooghe made this print, "Cavalrymen Resting Near a Tent," using etching. It shows soldiers taking a break, drinking, and relaxing near a tent. De Hooghe was working in the Netherlands during a time of significant military conflict, particularly the Franco-Dutch War. This print offers a glimpse into the everyday life of soldiers. The presence of a well-stocked tent and the act of drinking suggest the logistical support and sustenance required to maintain an army on the move. The depiction of soldiers resting also suggests a degree of autonomy away from the discipline of the military institution. To truly understand the context of this print, research into the social history of military life in the 17th-century Netherlands is crucial. By examining period documents, military records, and other visual representations, we can gain insights into the conditions, experiences, and social roles of soldiers during this era.