Plate 19: Men from the Fortress Surrender and Pledge Their Lives to Civilis, from The War of the Romans Against the Batavians (Romanorvm et Batavorvm societas) 1611 - 1612

"Plate 19: Men from the Fortress Surrender and Pledge Their Lives to Civilis," from *The War of the Romans Against the Batavians (Romanorvm et Batavorvm societas)*, is an etching by Antonio Tempesta, created between 1611 and 1612. This print depicts a dramatic scene from the Roman-Batavian War, where surrendering soldiers pledge their lives to the Batavian leader, Civilis, who is mounted on a horse. Tempesta masterfully captures the tension and drama of the moment through the use of dynamic lines, detailed figures, and a powerful sense of perspective. The print, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, provides a glimpse into the artist's skill in illustrating historical narratives with captivating realism.