Beleg en inname van Rheinberg door Maurits, 1601 1601 - 1624

This print, made in 1601 by an anonymous artist, depicts the siege of Rheinberg by Maurits of Nassau. It was made using the intaglio printmaking process of engraving. In this technique, the artist would have used a tool called a burin to manually cut lines into a copper plate. This required a high degree of skill, as any mistake would be difficult to correct. Once the image was complete, ink was applied to the plate and then wiped off, leaving ink only in the engraved lines. A sheet of paper was then pressed against the plate, transferring the ink and creating the print. Engraving was commonly used for detailed and precise images, such as maps, scientific illustrations, and portraits. The process allowed for fine lines and intricate details, which are evident in this print's depiction of the siege, from the rendering of the fortifications to the positioning of the troops. Ultimately, the print serves as a testament to the power of craft in disseminating information, blurring the lines between art, documentation, and propaganda.