Inname van Calais door aartshertog Albrecht, 1596 1596 - 1598

This anonymous engraving from 1596-1598 is an early example of a bird’s-eye view of the city of Calais, France. It is a detailed, topographical depiction of the city during the siege in 1596 by Archduke Albert of Austria, shown with his army surrounding the town. The siege was successful, and it is likely that the artist was commissioned by Archduke Albert to portray the successful victory in battle, showing his power and influence to those who could not be there themselves. This engraving is an example of the important genre of military cartography, a type of map that used visual tools to illustrate military campaigns and conquests. It was created in the Netherlands, a region known for its detailed and realistic engravings and prints.