Romeinse gevangen langs de vesting geleid, 69-70 1768 - 1770

This engraving, "Romeinse gevangen langs de vesting geleid, 69-70," was made by an anonymous artist. The scene depicts the surprise capture of Gueldub. We see Roman prisoners being led along the fortress walls. The image creates meaning through visual codes. It references historical associations and the cultural context of its time. The work likely reflects the political and military tensions of 17th century Europe, when the Dutch Republic was fighting for independence from Spain. The print presents a view of warfare and territorial control and hints at the ever-changing nature of power. The Rijksmuseum, where this print is held, provides important context. It shows how institutions shape the reception of art and how the understanding of historical events and social structures might influence it. The historian plays a key role in interpreting art. By researching social and institutional contexts, we can better understand how the meaning of art is contingent on its time.