Ontzet van Barcelona, 1706 1712 - 1715

Johann August Corvinus made this print, Ontzet van Barcelona, 1706, sometime in the early 18th century. It depicts the relief of Barcelona during the War of the Spanish Succession. Consider the visual codes at play here. The central image shows the arrival of the English fleet, breaking the siege of Barcelona. Surrounding it, an allegorical border depicts scenes of battle, alongside symbols of power and victory. This isn't just a depiction of a military event; it’s a carefully constructed piece of propaganda. Prints like these played a crucial role in shaping public opinion during a time of intense political upheaval. The War of the Spanish Succession was not only a conflict over who would be the King of Spain, but also a struggle between different visions of European order. Understanding the institutional context in which prints were produced helps us decipher their underlying messages and appreciate their role in shaping historical narratives. By consulting archives, letters, and other historical documents, we can uncover the complex web of social and political forces that shaped not only the creation of this print, but also its reception.