Attilus wordt door een zoon van zijn krijgsman gedood 1681 - 1699

Editor: Here we have a historical scene, an engraving made sometime between 1681 and 1699 by Arnold Houbraken, titled "Attilus wordt door een zoon van zijn krijgsman gedood," or "Attila killed by a son of his warrior." The clash is intense, very theatrical even, don't you think? What's your read on this piece? Curator: The engraving captures a grim moment with incredible detail, even if we're just talking about lines on paper. Houbraken, with his knack for storytelling, pulls us right into this brutal betrayal. There’s Attila, felled, while around him swirl the drama and… well, the treachery. Makes you wonder what went down beforehand. Who's side are you on here, or is anyone really a hero in this story? Editor: Definitely a messy situation! I notice how everything in the image directs your eye to Attila, who lies on the ground. The lines create a whirlwind of activity, yet they all emphasize his stillness. It's quite effective. What does the landscape contribute to the story, would you say? Curator: The landscape is an interesting detail. Stark, a little foreboding. It mirrors the chaos of the scene. Houbraken cleverly uses the environment, this almost theatrical backdrop, to amplify the intensity. Are we witnessing a historical event or a morality play? That tower perched on the hill seems to judge the happening below; cold and impassive, far away like the clouds, observing without interfering. Almost a witness. It's hard to peel your eyes from Attila on the ground. Editor: Right! Almost as if it doesn't even matter how or why, the violence is done. Something definitely for us to think about on our way to the next gallery! Curator: Indeed, a grim tale, well told. Until next time, then.