Strozzi in Frankrijk gevangen genomen, 1569 c. 1569 - 1571

This engraving from 1569 by Frans Hogenberg depicts the capture of Filippo Strozzi in France. Produced in the Netherlands during a period of intense religious and political upheaval, this image is more than just a historical record; it's a piece of propaganda. The level of detail suggests an effort to portray the event as a significant victory, potentially glossing over more complex realities of the conflict. The artist uses visual codes familiar to the period, such as the orderly arrangement of troops to suggest strength and discipline, and chaotic battle scenes to denote the enemy's disarray. Hogenberg’s work reflects the turbulent times of the Reformation and the Dutch Revolt. These prints, often disseminated as news, shaped public opinion and solidified political positions. To fully understand this image, we need to delve into the historical archives, looking at pamphlets, letters, and other visual materials that circulated at the time. The meaning of this image is contingent on its social and institutional context.