Medaille op het overlijden van Jacob van Heemskerck, 1607 1780 - 1782

This print, made in the Netherlands in 1607, commemorates the death of Jacob van Heemskerck. It's an engraving, a medium that allowed for the wide dissemination of images and ideas during this period. The print presents two circular medallions. The upper one depicts van Heemskerck's funeral procession, a public display of mourning and an assertion of social status. The lower medallion portrays a naval battle, symbolizing his heroic death at sea. These scenes weren't just about commemorating an individual, they served a public role in shaping collective memory and national identity. The Dutch Republic, newly independent, was forging its identity through maritime power and trade. This print reflects that ambition, celebrating a naval hero and reinforcing the values of courage and sacrifice. To understand this print fully, we need to delve into the economic and political context of the Dutch Golden Age, looking at sources such as period newspapers, pamphlets, and official records. The meaning of this print is deeply embedded in the social and institutional currents of its time.