Leden van de Raad van State gevangengenomen, 1576 c. 1576 - 1579

This print, made in 1576 by Frans Hogenberg, depicts the imprisonment of the Council of State. The etching process—using acid to bite lines into a metal plate—allows for a detailed, reproducible image, perfectly suited for spreading political messages in a time of conflict. Look closely, and you'll see the sharp, precise lines that define the figures and architectural settings. The rigid formation of soldiers with their pikes, and the frantic struggle of the Council members are all captured with remarkable clarity, thanks to the etcher's skill. Hogenberg's choice of printmaking underscores the themes of power, control, and the dissemination of information. By using a process that enables mass production, the artist ensured his visual account of this historical event could reach a wide audience, influencing public opinion. This speaks to the powerful role of craft and design in shaping social and political narratives. The work invites us to consider the relationship between art, the means of its production, and its impact on society.