De Beleegering No. 1. 1739 - 1786

This print, "De Beleegering No. 1," was produced by Jan van Lee, a bookseller in Haarlem. It presents, in comic strip form, scenes of military siege. This unassuming print offers us an intriguing snapshot of popular culture in the Netherlands, likely from the 17th or 18th century. Each panel is accompanied by a short verse, adding a narrative layer to the visual. The imagery, while simplistic, provides insight into the military technology and tactics of the period, as well as a sense of the everyday experience of war. It's important to remember that Van Lee was a bookseller, not an artist employed by an institution. The image speaks to the power of print culture in shaping public perceptions of military conflict. By examining such prints alongside official military records and personal accounts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context that shaped the Dutch Republic.