Bataven breken de brug over de IJssel af, 69-70 1768 - 1770

This engraving, Bataven breken de brug over de IJssel af, 69-70, was made by an anonymous artist. It depicts a key moment in the Batavian revolt against Roman rule. The act of destroying the bridge symbolizes a definitive break. This image creates meaning through the visual codes of warfare and rebellion. It was made in the Netherlands, in a period where national identity was being forged through stories of resistance against foreign powers. Cultural references to classical history, particularly tales of rebellion and valor, were frequently used to inspire and legitimize political movements. It reflects the social conditions of a people striving for independence, challenging the established order of the Roman Empire. Historians use a range of resources to understand such artworks, including contemporary accounts, archaeological findings, and comparative analyses of similar images. The meaning of this image is deeply rooted in the social and institutional context of its time, reflecting the ongoing struggle for self-determination.