Twee voorstellingen; boven: het Staatse leger steekt de haven bij Nieuwpoort over en de Staatse en Spaanse legers tegenover elkaar op het strand bij Nieuwpoort; onder: de slagordes en eerste schermutselingen tussen Staatse en Spaanse soldaten op het strand bij Nieuwpoort, 1600 1647 - 1649

This print, made in 1600 by an anonymous artist, depicts two scenes from the Battle of Nieuwpoort. The technique used to create this piece is engraving, a process that involves meticulously carving lines into a metal plate. The fine, precise lines characteristic of engraving allow for a high level of detail, essential for illustrating the complex formations of the armies, and the array of ships at sea. This technique demanded skilled labor and time, underscoring the importance of conveying accurate information. The visual language, while artistic, served a practical purpose – documenting the battle for contemporaries. By focusing on the materials and processes behind this seemingly straightforward image, we gain insight into the social and cultural context of its creation. The print is not just a depiction of a battle; it's a testament to the labor, skill, and technologies that shaped historical narratives. This perspective challenges the traditional separation of "high art" from craft and documentary practices.