Tekstblad bij een latere uitgave van de kaart van het beleg van Sas-van-Gent, 1644 1644

This broadside, made in Amsterdam in 1644 by Claes Jansz. Visscher, offers a textual account of the siege of Sas-van-Gent. Its historical significance lies in its role as a piece of early news media, reflecting the intense interest in military and political events during the Dutch Golden Age. The text, densely packed and presented in both Dutch and French, demonstrates the importance of the printing press in disseminating information across linguistic and national boundaries. In the context of the Eighty Years' War, such publications served to shape public opinion and bolster national identity. The work highlights the role of cartography and topographical knowledge in military campaigns, as well as the commercial networks that supported the production and distribution of printed materials. To fully understand this broadside, historians might consult archival records, contemporary newspapers, and military histories. By situating the artwork within its specific social and institutional context, we can better appreciate its role in shaping public discourse and influencing the course of history.