Portrait of the Duke of Alva, from a Series of Tazza Designs 1583 - 1593

This engraving, now in the Metropolitan Museum, was made by Theodor de Bry in the late 16th century, a time of great religious and political upheaval in Europe. De Bry depicts the Duke of Alva, a figure infamous for his brutal suppression of the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule. But look closer. The image surrounds the Duke with scenes of folly and madness. De Bry subtly undermines Alva's authority. Made in the Netherlands, this print reflects the cultural and political tensions of a society struggling for independence. The use of allegory and pointed text reveals a sophisticated understanding of propaganda and its potential to shape public opinion. The print wasn't simply a portrait, but a political statement, reflecting the artist's own sympathies and the broader climate of resistance. As historians, we examine such images alongside other historical documents like pamphlets, letters, and official records. Together, these resources offer a richer understanding of the social conditions that shape artistic production and reception.