Zeeslag 1778 - 1832

Anthonie van den Bos created this print of a naval battle, titled "Zeeslag" in the late 18th or early 19th century. The print depicts warships in combat, with smoke billowing from cannons and smaller vessels scattered around the larger ships. Made in the Netherlands, this image reflects the country's strong maritime history and its economic and political power as a major naval force during the Dutch Golden Age and beyond. Prints like this one were popular ways to disseminate images of naval power and battles, shaping public perception and national identity. The Rijksmuseum, where this print is housed, plays a significant role in preserving and presenting this history. To fully understand the image, we can consult naval records, historical accounts of battles, and period publications that show how such events were portrayed and understood at the time. By looking at these sources, we can better appreciate how art like this contributed to the social and institutional contexts of its time.