Aanval door drie ijsberen op de sloepen, 1597 1615 - 1617

This anonymous engraving depicts a dramatic encounter between Dutch explorers and arctic wildlife in 1597. It captures a moment of vulnerability as three polar bears attack their sloops. The image offers a window into the historical context of 16th-century Dutch exploration and its relationship with the natural world. Made during the height of Dutch maritime expansion, the engraving reflects the economic and political ambitions driving these expeditions. The depiction of the attack could be interpreted as a commentary on the risks associated with exploration and the potential for nature to resist human encroachment. The image also serves to demonstrate Dutch mastery over nature. The Rijksmuseum provides a wealth of resources for further investigation. By examining archival documents, maps, and other visual materials, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social, economic, and cultural forces that shaped this artwork and the historical moment it represents.