Flotering: afhakken van ledematen en onthoofding 1565 - 1630

This etching by Antonio Tempesta, created between 1565 and 1630, depicts a gruesome scene of dismemberment and beheading. The print, titled "Flotering: afhakken van ledematen en onthoofding," showcases Tempesta's mastery of detail and anatomical accuracy. The work is a testament to the dark side of human history and serves as a reminder of the brutality that existed in earlier times. The scene unfolds amidst a classical architectural backdrop, creating a stark contrast between the beauty of the setting and the violence taking place. The powerful imagery of this work, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, continues to resonate with viewers centuries later.