Beleg van Oostende: oude en nieuwe verdedigingswerken, 1604 1604 - 1615

This print, made in 1604 by an anonymous artist, shows the siege of Oostende. It was made with engraving, a printmaking technique where lines are cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The act of engraving these lines by hand, using a tool called a burin, determined the image’s crisp, precise quality. See how the marks create a sense of depth and texture, distinguishing land from water, fortifications from buildings. This wasn't just artistry; it was also a labor-intensive process, requiring skill and time. In its own way, this map is a powerful document reflecting the military and political strategies of the time. It serves as a reminder that art and craft often intersect with wider social issues, like war and territorial disputes. By appreciating the material and process of this work, we can go beyond its simple function as a map, and see it as a testament to human ingenuity, skill, and the intricate relationship between art, labor, and history.