Johan van Oldenbarnevelt op het schavot, 1619 19th century

This 19th-century anonymous engraving, "Johan van Oldenbarnevelt op het schavot, 1619," depicts the execution of Johan van Oldenbarnevelt, a prominent Dutch statesman, in 1619. The detailed scene showcases Oldenbarnevelt on the scaffold surrounded by figures in period dress, emphasizing the historical significance of the event. The engraving's stark lines and dramatic composition likely aimed to evoke a sense of tragedy and injustice, capturing the public's perception of the execution. Currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, the small size of the print further emphasizes its intimacy and personal connection to the viewer, offering a glimpse into Dutch history and its complexities.