Inname van Calais door aartshertog Albrecht, 1596 1596 - 1598

This anonymous engraving from 1596 depicts the Archduke Albrecht's capture of Calais. It provides a bird's-eye view of the siege. The composition emphasizes military strategy and power, reflecting the political tensions between the Spanish Netherlands and France during the late 16th century. This image is more than just a historical record; it's a statement about sovereignty and control. Calais, as a strategic port city, was highly contested. Its capture by the Spanish forces marked a shift in the balance of power and had significant economic implications. Consider how the engraver chose to represent this event. The detailed depiction of military formations and fortifications suggests an attempt to assert dominance and legitimize the Spanish claim. How might those living in Calais at the time have felt, seeing their home depicted as a site of conquest? The image serves as a reminder of how historical events can be framed and used to shape collective memory.