Boursse Handing Over the Keys of the Citadel to Liedekercke, 23 VIII 1577 - Johannes Wierix

A detailed 1577 engraving by Johannes Wierix depicting the historical surrender of the Antwerp citadel during the Dutch Revolt.

This engraving by Johannes Wierix documents a specific political event during the Dutch Revolt: the surrender of the citadel of Antwerp by Jacques de Boursse to Philippe de Liedekercke on 23 August 1577. The composition is structured as a circular medallion, a common format for commemorative prints of the period, which allows for a focused narrative within a decorative frame.

At the centre, the artist depicts the formal exchange of keys, a gesture symbolising the transfer of authority. The surrounding scene includes soldiers and military figures, providing a sense of the tension inherent in the conflict. The circular frame is flanked by two allegorical female figures, representing Ratio (Reason) and Fiducia (Trust), who oversee the proceedings from above. These figures reflect the intellectual climate of the late sixteenth century, where historical events were frequently interpreted through the lens of classical virtues.

Below the central medallion, a cartouche contains text in both French and Dutch, explaining the significance of Boursse's actions. The engraving demonstrates the technical precision for which Wierix was known, particularly in his handling of line work to define the textures of armour, fabric, and the architectural elements of the citadel. The print functions as a visual record of a moment in the Eighty Years' War, capturing the interplay between military history and the allegorical language of the era. The use of clear, controlled lines ensures that the complex narrative remains legible, while the ornamental borders provide a sophisticated context for the historical subject matter.