Dolendo, Battle of Turnhout, Dutch and English Victory over Spanish, 1700, Print

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Battle of Turnhout 1597 – Dutch and English Victory over Spanish This original antique engraving depicts the Battle of Turnhout, … Read more Battle of Turnhout 1597 – Dutch and English Victory over Spanish This original antique engraving depicts the Battle of Turnhout, fought on January 24, 1597, during the Eighty Years’ War. The engraving shows a dynamic panoramic view of the battlefield with detailed formations and dramatic action. On the left side is the advancing Dutch army under the command of Prince Maurits of Nassau, known for his tactical innovations that modernised European warfare. The central area shows the dense formations of infantry squares with pikes and muskets, while cavalry units charge between them. On the right are the English cavalry divisions led by Robert Sidney, Francis Vere, and Perker, depicted in rapid pursuit of the fleeing Spanish forces. Above the battle scene are scattered Spanish troops retreating in disorder, marking the decisive victory of the Dutch and English allied forces. In the distant top right corner, the church tower of Herenthals is visible, situating the viewer geographically within the southern Netherlands. The Battle of Turnhout was significant for showcasing the effectiveness of Maurits’ disciplined infantry against Spanish tercios. It demonstrated the superiority of volley fire and flexible formations over traditional Spanish pike tactics, cementing Maurits’ reputation as a military innovator. This engraving was likely created in the late 16th or early 17th century to commemorate the battle’s impact on Dutch independence and morale. Such prints served both as historical records and patriotic propaganda, illustrating victories that contributed to the eventual formation of the Dutch Republic. The maker was likely Bartholomeus Willemsz Dolendo, a Dutch engraver, draftsman, and goldsmith active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Name: Bartholomeus Willemsz Dolendo Birth: circa 1570, Leiden, Netherlands Death: 1626, Leiden, Netherlands Dolendo was a student of Hendrick Goltzius, one of the leading engravers and printmakers of the Dutch Golden Age. He became known for his finely detailed engravings, often reproducing works by other artists, especially mythological, biblical, and historical subjects. His style is characterised by precise line work and delicate cross-hatching, reflecting the Mannerist influence of his teacher. In addition to engraving, Dolendo worked as a goldsmith, a common combination in this period due to the shared technical skills in metalwork. He produced numerous prints both from his own designs and after designs by contemporaries such as Goltzius and Cornelis Cornelisz van Haarlem. His works remain significant for collectors of Dutch engravings and Mannerist art due to their technical quality and their role in disseminating Netherlandish artistic styles across Europe. Condition: Good condition for its age. The engraving impression is strong and clear with excellent detail. Light overall age toning, minor foxing in margins, and a water stain at the bottom left corner, not affecting the main image. Original wide margins with some handling creases typical of 16th–17th century paper. No tears or repairs noted. Fully suitable for framing. Paper a bit 'weak'. Framing tips: Frame this engraving in a dark wood or black moulding to enhance its historic military theme. Use an off-white archival mat to protect the paper edges and highlight the detailed composition. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the engraving from light damage while ensuring clarity and long-term conservation. See less