Uittocht van het Spaanse garnizoen uit Breda (plaat 1 en 2), 1637 1637

This print, made in 1637 by an anonymous artist, captures the Spanish garrison's departure from Breda, employing the meticulous technique of etching. The linear precision of etching defines the artwork's aesthetic, dictating the delicate rendering of forms and textures. Every line, etched into the metal plate with acid, contributes to the overall image, revealing a labor-intensive process. This method, while allowing for detailed imagery, inherently reflects the socio-economic conditions of its time. The scene depicts a formal procession, revealing the social hierarchy and power dynamics of the period. The act of etching itself, demanding skill and time, mirrors the broader societal structures that define the era. This challenges any clear distinction between the fine arts and the skilled trades, underscoring the value of materials, manufacturing, and historical setting in fully comprehending art.