Plate 13: Attack on the Roman Fortress at Night, from The War of the Romans Against the Batavians (Romanorvm et Batavorvm societas) 1611 - 1612

Antonio Tempesta's etching "Plate 13: Attack on the Roman Fortress at Night, from The War of the Romans Against the Batavians" (1611-1612) depicts a dramatic scene of a night battle. The Roman fortress is under attack by a large army of Batavians. The etching is filled with detail and energy, conveying the chaos of the battle. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and texture. This detailed etching, one of 15 plates in the series "Romanorvm et Batavorvm societas," is a powerful example of Tempesta's skill as a draftsman and printmaker. The series documents the historical conflict between the Roman Empire and the Batavian people.