Soldaat die zijn musket met zijn rechterhand op zijn schouder legt, ca. 1645 1645 - 1647

Petrus Rucholle made this engraving of a soldier around 1645, during a period of significant military and political upheaval in Europe. The soldier, with his musket casually slung over his shoulder, embodies both power and vulnerability. His stance suggests a readiness for conflict, yet there's a softness to his features and attire, hinting at the human cost of war. This image offers insight into the complex identities of soldiers of the time. The fancy details and adornments on his clothing contrast sharply with the deadly weapon he carries, blurring lines of class and gender. The print complicates traditional narratives of masculinity, as the soldier’s self-presentation involves elements of both aggression and refinement. Through this image, Rucholle invites us to reflect on the personal stories embedded within broader historical conflicts, and to recognize the emotional dimensions of those who served.