Vignet met een zwaard met een lauwerkrans en het wapen van de stad Haarlem 17th century

This small, anonymous print presents the coat of arms of the city of Haarlem, rendered in ink on paper. The process used was likely woodcut or engraving, techniques common for producing illustrations during the hand-press era. The stark contrast between the black ink and the off-white paper gives the image a bold, graphic quality. Notice how the artist used simple lines and shapes to create a complex design, layering symbols of civic identity and perhaps martial valor. The sword, wreathed in laurel, speaks of both defense and honor, reflecting Haarlem’s history. The production of prints like these involved skilled labor and specialized tools. Woodcut and engraving demand precision and patience, each line carefully carved or etched. The existence of this print points to a system of production and distribution, indicating a demand for such images within Haarlem’s society. By looking at its materials and making, we gain insight into the cultural values and economic activities of its time, moving beyond mere aesthetic appreciation to understand its broader historical context.