Ontscheping van soldaten 1617 - 1660

"Ontscheping van soldaten" (Disembarkation of Soldiers), an etching by Matthieu van Plattenberg, is a detailed and dynamic depiction of a bustling harbor scene. The image captures the moment soldiers disembark from ships, with a prominent fortress and numerous sailing vessels filling the background. The artist's skilled use of line and shadow creates a sense of depth and movement, showcasing the intricacies of maritime life in the 17th century. The etching's focus on the act of disembarkation highlights the importance of seafaring and military logistics in this era. This work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age's fascination with detailed and realistic depictions of everyday scenes, reflecting a period of economic prosperity and maritime dominance.