De exercitie met schild en spies: de soldaat presenteert zijn rapier met de hand niet hoger dan zijn gezicht (nr. 19), 1618 1616 - 1618

This engraving from 1618 by Adam van Breen depicts a soldier in full military dress. During the early 17th century, the Dutch Republic was embroiled in the Eighty Years' War, fighting for independence from Spain. Military prowess was a key aspect of national identity, and prints like this served to document and celebrate the skills of Dutch soldiers. The soldier's composed stance and direct gaze suggest a sense of confidence and control. Yet, his youth hints at the personal sacrifices demanded by war, and the ever-present risk of death, which was especially poignant during this prolonged conflict. Van Breen's attention to detail, from the intricate patterns on the shield to the folds of the soldier's clothing, speaks to the era’s complex relationship with warfare: a blend of national pride, technological advancement, and personal cost. The image functions as a potent reminder of how individual lives intersect with the grand narratives of history.