De overgave van Mendoza tijdens de slag bij Nieuwpoort, 1600 1800 - 1849

This drawing by C. Normand depicts the surrender of Mendoza during the Battle of Nieuwpoort in 1600. Executed in delicate lines, the composition unfolds with a theatrical dynamism, capturing a pivotal moment in military history. Normand's strategic use of line work creates depth and movement. The intricate detailing of the figures' garments and the horses' manes contrasts with the starkness of the background, emphasizing the foreground action. The arrangement of figures and the direction of their gaze invite us to follow the narrative flow from left to right, culminating in the central exchange of power. The work reflects a structural interest in historical narratives and power dynamics. By focusing on the moment of surrender, Normand highlights the semiotic weight of this gesture, marking a shift in dominance and control. This drawing serves as a formal exercise in the representation of historical events, where each line contributes to the larger construction of meaning.