Slepen van een korenschuit naar de oever, 69-70 1768 - 1770

This image, a print likely from the 17th century, depicts a dramatic scene of conflict. The central motif is the toiling figures pulling a grain barge along a river, a symbol steeped in historical context. This collective effort evokes the ancient symbol of human struggle and cooperation, seen in Egyptian tomb paintings where groups haul colossal statues, or in Roman battle scenes where legions work together to overcome obstacles. Here, this motif is repurposed to depict a specific historical event: the Batavian rebellion against Roman rule. The act of pulling the barge—laden with grain, a life-sustaining resource—highlights the control and struggle over provisions, reflecting a deeper theme of power and resistance. The recurring image of collective labor and struggle is an expression of enduring human themes, resurfacing across epochs and cultures. It is a testament to the cyclical nature of history, where certain motifs are re-inscribed, taking on new meanings while echoing past struggles.