Verovering van Luanda en Sao Tomé, 1641 1649 - 1651

This engraving, made in 1641 by an anonymous Dutch artist, depicts the conquest of Luanda and Sao Tomé by the Dutch West India Company. The image offers a bird's-eye view of the military operation: in the lower register, we see Dutch ships arriving in Luanda, Angola, while the upper register shows Sao Tomé. This image creates meaning through its visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. It reflects the Dutch Republic's imperial ambitions in the 17th century, a period marked by intense competition for overseas territories and trade routes. The Dutch West India Company, a powerful institution, played a central role in this expansion, engaging in both trade and military conquest. As historians, we can examine archival sources, such as the Company's records, to gain a deeper understanding of the events depicted in this engraving. By studying the social and institutional context in which art is produced, we can better understand its role in shaping public opinion and justifying imperial endeavors.