Spaanse Furie: beschieting van de stad, 1576 c. 1576 - 1579

Frans Hogenberg created this print depicting the Spanish Fury in 1576. Through the lens of social history, we can view this work as more than just a depiction of a historical event, but as a commentary on the politics of imagery and the social conditions that shape artistic production. This print vividly captures the attack on Antwerp by Spanish forces, using visual codes of chaos, violence, and destruction. The detailed rendering of the city under siege, with its cultural references to the ongoing conflict, offers a powerful statement about the ravages of war. Made in the context of the Eighty Years' War, this image critiques the Spanish rule and serves as a form of political resistance through visual storytelling. Understanding this artwork requires us to delve into the historical context, examining the social and political tensions of the time. It's through such research that we can fully appreciate the role of art in challenging existing social norms and documenting the struggles of a society in turmoil.