Ruïnes in de Wagenstraat te Brussel, 1695 1695

Augustin Coppens’s 1695 etching, “Ruïnes in de Wagenstraat te Brussel”, depicts the aftermath of a devastating fire that ravaged the Wagenstraat in Brussels. The etching captures the somber mood of the ruined street, with the charred remains of buildings standing as a testament to the destructive power of fire. Coppens expertly uses light and shadow to emphasize the devastation, creating a powerful and poignant image of the city's resilience in the face of tragedy. The etching provides a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the importance of historical preservation and the fragility of our built environment.