Anbieter: Bartele Gallery - The Netherlands, Langweer, FRL, Niederlande
This original rare print depicts the siege and capture of Oudenaarde on July 5, 1582, during the Eighty Years' War. A notable incident during this event was the miraculous escape of the Duke of Parma, Alessandro Farnese, who was unharmed after a cannon shot killed his table companions. This event is highlighted in the scene with the Duke of Parma shown on the left side of the print. The image likely portrays the intensity and sudden violence of siege warfare during this period, with detailed depictions of military actions, fortifications, and the chaos of battle. The annotations in Latin provide context and explanations for various elements of the scene, identifying key figures, locations, and moments during the siege. The Latin legend labeled A-M describes specific points of interest or key moments in the siege, offering a detailed narrative to accompany the visual representation. Prints like this served as historical records, illustrating important victories, losses, and miraculous survivals that were significant to the course of the war. The Latin text from the two images pertains to the siege and capture of Oudenaarde in 1582. Here are the translations: A. Oudenaarde, the city. B. The Scheldt River. C. The King's troops being expelled, cross the bridge. D. The people of Oudenaarde coming out to fight are driven back into the city. E. Continuing fight of the Prince of Parma's hostile troops, some are hit, others flee, he himself is not frightened. F. Count Mansfeld rushes to the danger of the Prince. G. Audacious attack of the Italians on the fortress. H. The regiment of the seditious threatening with spears the Prince of Parma, who attacks and wounds some. I. One of the seditious is seized by the neck and dragged out of the battle line. K. Twenty of the same are taken captive. L. Assault on the fortress and the city taken by storm. M. The Duke of Alençon brings help to the city too late.