Kanonnen, plaat 35 Possibly 1530 - 1620

This print, made by Nicolaas Hogenberg around the mid-16th century, depicts a series of cannons rendered in ink on paper. The image is a fascinating exploration of militarization in early modern Europe. The cannons are meticulously detailed, showing their construction from metal and wood, while the printmaking medium, with its reproducible nature, mirrors the industrialization of warfare. Consider the labor involved: from the mining of metals to the craftsmanship required to forge these machines. The cannons are not just weapons, but products of a burgeoning military-industrial complex. The image is also a kind of advertisement, showcasing technological advancement and asserting power. What was once the domain of blacksmiths is now a complex enterprise, driving trade and geopolitical strategy. By focusing on the materials and processes represented here, we can see how Hogenberg's print transcends mere documentation, offering a glimpse into the social, economic, and political forces shaping the world.