Twee scènes uit de eerste kruistocht 1729 - 1733

Dominique Sornique created this print, "Two Scenes from the First Crusade," in the 18th century. It is made from etching on paper. The composition is divided into two circular vignettes, each presenting a different moment from the historical event. The upper scene depicts a chaotic battle with knights on horseback engaged in combat. Sornique uses strong diagonal lines to convey the movement and energy of the fight, and the dense arrangement of figures intensifies the sense of conflict. The lower scene shows a siege with soldiers surrounding a fortified city. The artist employs linear perspective to create depth, drawing our eye towards the besieged city. The circular format of each scene frames the narrative, creating a sense of self-contained drama. The use of line and form reflects the values of the Enlightenment, emphasizing order, clarity, and the importance of visual communication. The print serves not only as a historical record but also as an aesthetic object that invites reflection on the nature of conflict, power, and representation.