Aanval op het eiland Annobón, 1602 1644 - 1646

This print, “Attack on the Island of Annobón, 1602,” was made by an anonymous artist. The work is a testament to the power of line engraving, a process in which an image is incised into a metal plate, which then carries ink to paper. Look closely and you'll see how the artist used hatching, cross-hatching, and stippling to create depth and shadow. The meticulous work involved in creating such an intricate image speaks to the dedication and skill of the printmaker. The print captures a moment in time, and a critical insight into the history of European expansion and colonization. The act of creating this print also speaks to broader social and economic forces, capturing the rise of global trade and the pursuit of wealth and power. While the artist remains anonymous, their work stands as a reminder of the many hands involved in shaping our understanding of history. This intricate print offers a window into the past, inviting us to reflect on the complex interplay of materials, labor, and power.