Franse wreedheden in Bodegraven en Zwammerdam, 1672 1727

Bernard Picart created this etching, titled "French atrocities in Bodegraven and Zwammerdam, 1672," sometime after the events it depicts. It shows the brutal reality of war during a key moment in Dutch history known as the “Disaster Year.” The image captures the widespread panic and violence inflicted on civilians by French troops. What stands out is the raw depiction of suffering: bodies strewn across the foreground, buildings ablaze, and the chaos of armed conflict. Picart, who was born shortly after these events, wasn't a direct witness, but his work reflects the collective memory and trauma of the Dutch people. This piece is more than just a historical record. It’s a stark reminder of how war disproportionately affects the most vulnerable, stripping away safety and dignity. The emotional impact of the print lies in its ability to evoke empathy and a sense of shared humanity. It serves as a potent commentary on the cost of conflict, urging us to remember the human stories often lost in the broader narratives of war.