Unattributed, [Battle of Nieuwpoort]

Unattributed. [Battle of Nieuwpoort].

Engraving of the Low Country revolt against Spain. Early seventeenth century. Engraving. Ca. 5 x 6 1/2. Very good condition.

Holy Roman Emperor Charles V (also King of Spain as Charles I) abdicated his thrones in 1556, bequeathing both Spain and the Netherlands to his son Philip. In response to Philip's trying to limit the economic, political, and religious freedoms they had hitherto taken for granted, the Dutch revolted against the Spanish Crown in 1567. Despite the strength and cruelty of the generals sent against them by Philip, in particular the Duke of Alva (1567-1573) and the Duke of Parma (1578-1592), the Dutch were able to establish an independent republic in the northern seven provinces in 1579. 

On July 2, 1600, Dutch and Spanish forces clashed in the dunes near Nieuwpoort in what became known as the Battle of Nieuwpoort, or the Battle of the Dunes. The engagement unfolded as a head-on confrontation, with the Spanish left flank nearly giving way under pressure. Though Spanish infantry and cavalry mounted determined counterattacks, the army eventually broke apart, retreating in disorder and abandoned its artillery.