Aankomst binnen de stad; intocht van Ferdinand te Antwerpen in 1635 (nr. 5) 1639 - 1641

Theodoor van Thulden made this print, “Arrival inside the city; entrance of Ferdinand in Antwerp in 1635”, sometime in the 17th century. It’s a fascinating image of power, full of the visual codes of political authority. This etching depicts a staged moment during a state visit, a carefully orchestrated display of power that reinforced the social hierarchy of 17th-century Antwerp. Consider the use of classical architecture and iconography, designed to associate Ferdinand with the glory of the Roman Empire. What’s interesting is that Antwerp was part of the Spanish Netherlands at the time, ruled by the Habsburgs. So this carefully staged event was actually designed to legitimize foreign rule. Historical prints like this offer us invaluable insights into the political theater of the past. By studying these images alongside archival documents, we can better understand the complex interplay of art, power, and social control. Ultimately, the meaning of this print lies in its historical context.