Fireworks on June 23, 1595, for the entry to Küstrin of the Margrave of Brandenburg and Duchess of Prussia 1595

Georg Keller created this engraving, Fireworks on June 23, 1595, to commemorate a dynastic visit to Küstrin in Brandenburg. This print offers us a glimpse into the spectacle and symbolic language employed to solidify political power in the late 16th century. Look closely at the scene. Keller meticulously depicts the fireworks display, capturing the excitement and grandeur intended to impress the Margrave of Brandenburg and Duchess of Prussia. Note the crowds, the architecture of the city, and the elaborate pyrotechnics, all serving to create an atmosphere of awe and respect. In Brandenburg at this time, displays like these were more than mere entertainment. They were carefully orchestrated events designed to project an image of strength, prosperity, and legitimacy. The choice of imagery, the scale of the celebration, and even the location within the city were all carefully considered to convey specific messages about the ruling family's power and authority. Historians use sources such as city records, personal diaries, and other visual representations to further illuminate the meaning behind this event. Understanding the social and political context allows us to interpret this print not just as a depiction of fireworks, but as a window into the complex dynamics of power in early modern Europe.