Belgische militairen te paard 1866 - 1902

Franciscus Antonius Beersmans made this print of Belgian soldiers on horseback using an engraving. The image presents the soldiers in a grid-like arrangement, reminiscent of military formations. This artwork reflects the 19th-century European fascination with military power and national identity. Belgium, having gained independence in 1830, was keen to establish its own military and assert its place among European powers. The soldiers' vibrant uniforms and disciplined presentation symbolize the nation's military might. The institutional history of military academies and their influence on national pride cannot be overlooked here. Prints like these were part of the visual culture that promoted national unity. Research into the history of Belgian military uniforms and the political context of the time would deepen our understanding. Art provides a tangible link to the past, contingent on the political and social conditions in which it was made.