Spotprent op het nemen van de zilvervloot bij Vigo, 1702 1702

Romeyn de Hooghe made this print of the naval battle of Vigo in 1702. It commemorates the Anglo-Dutch victory over the Franco-Spanish fleet. Made in the Netherlands, the print reflects the Dutch Republic's position in European power struggles. The Dutch Golden Age saw the rise of a wealthy merchant class and a vibrant print culture, often used for political commentary. De Hooghe, a key figure in this culture, uses symbolism and detailed imagery to depict the battle and its political implications. Mythological figures ride sea monsters amidst exploding ships, framing the event within a heroic narrative designed to boost national pride. The print's layered meanings and political context become clearer when we consult contemporary sources: newspapers, diplomatic correspondence, and personal accounts. These materials offer a richer understanding of the artwork's role in shaping public opinion and reflecting the complex social and political dynamics of the time. Ultimately, the meaning of art is always dependent on the social and institutional context of its time.