De veldslag van Wagram, in Maravië / Bataille de Wagram, en Marovie 1800 - 1833

This hand-coloured engraving depicting 'The Battle of Wagram' was created by Philippus Jacobus Brepols, likely in the early 19th century. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the public role of art in shaping perceptions of historical events. Rather than aiming for realistic representation, the print employs simplified imagery and sequential narratives, almost like a comic strip, to convey the key moments of the battle, which was a pivotal moment in the Napoleonic Wars. Made in the Netherlands at a time when the Dutch were under French rule, this print reflects the complex cultural and political landscape of the era. The use of both Dutch and French captions suggests an audience that was both bi-lingual and bicultural. As historians, we might delve into the print's publishing context, looking at the printmaker's other works and target audience, to gain a deeper understanding of its intended meaning and its place within the broader visual culture of the time.