Verovering van Doornik, 1709 1712 - 1715

This etching by Johann Jakob Kleinschmidt, titled "Verovering van Doornik, 1709," depicts the capture of the city of Tournai in 1709 by the Dutch during the War of the Spanish Succession. The central scene, framed by a classical architectural structure, shows soldiers and cannons surrounding the city walls. Above, an eagle representing the might of the Netherlands perches over the city. This allegorical piece is a testament to the artistic practice of depicting historical events and glorifying military victories through symbolic imagery, a popular trend of the 18th century. The artwork, currently housed at the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies the Baroque style and its fascination with the grandiose.