Wapenkaart van het hertogdom Brabant (rechter blad) 1598 - 1621

This is the right-hand sheet of a heraldic print, a ‘Wapenkaart’, depicting the coats of arms of the Duchy of Brabant, made by Henry Lutg. This image is an example of a visual language of power and authority. The shields, banners and heraldic devices aren't just decorative. They represent the complex social and political structures of the time. This was a society deeply rooted in tradition and hierarchy, where lineage and allegiance were of paramount importance. This print offered a visual shorthand for understanding these relationships, reinforcing existing power structures. As historians, we might look at the ways in which the Duchy of Brabant used visual imagery to assert its authority. By studying archival documents, genealogical records, and other historical sources, we can better understand the social context in which this ‘Wapenkaart’ was produced. In doing so, we can uncover the complex web of power and influence that shaped society at the time.