Antique Etching – Pontoon Bridge of Parma over the Scheldt - "Schipbrug van Parma over the Scheldt, 1585" – Le Pont ...

Antique Etching – Pontoon Bridge of Parma over the Scheldt - "Schipbrug van Parma over the Scheldt, 1585" – Le Pont de Farnese
This detailed etching captures the ingenious military engineering feat of Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, during the Siege of Antwerp in 1585. Known as the "Schipbrug van Parma" (Parma's Ship Bridge), this floating bridge across the Scheldt River was constructed to cut off Antwerp’s access to supplies, ultimately leading to its surrender to Spanish forces.The composition offers an elaborate view of the bridge, with carriages, soldiers, and warships, reflecting the strategic measures taken during the Eighty Years' War. In the bottom left, Duke Farnese is seen approving the bridge’s design, emphasizing his role in orchestrating one of the most decisive maneuvers of the war. A cartouche with the title and a legend (A-Q) in French provides additional context, labeling key elements of the scene.As part of the "Guerres de Flandres" (Wars of Flanders) series, this historically significant print serves as both a military record and a remarkable work of 16th-century cartographic art, preserving the legacy of one of the most pivotal battles in Flemish and European history.Artist or Maker: UnknownMedium: Etching on paperDate:1585Dimensions:37 cm × 32 cmCondition Description:This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.