Henri Leys, The Siege of Antwerp During the Spanish Fury, 1576, Oil on Canvas

Description

This painting depicts the sacking of Antwerp during the Spanish Fury in 1576 with count Egmont and Hoorne in the … more This painting depicts the sacking of Antwerp during the Spanish Fury in 1576 with count Egmont and Hoorne in the central focal point rallying the people to revolt against the Spanish. Both men were decapitated on the Great square in Brussels in 1568 by the Spanish count of Alva. Their death was the start of the Dutch Revolt against the Spanish occupier and instigated the revolt known as the 80 years war in the Habsburg Netherlands. Thuss the painter symbolically uses these two historical figures to honor the start of rebellion and remember their sacrifice and unwavering commitment and bravery in the eye of adversity. The civilian defenses were useless against the battle-hardened Spaniards who took there belated pay by plundering the city of Antwerp during three full days of pillage and cruelty. The loss of life was assessed at 17.000 souls. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution less