This scarce and intricately detailed engraving illustrates the capture of Ardres from May 7 to May 23, 1596, during the Franco-Spanish War, part of the greater French Wars of Religion. Archduke Albert and the Spanish Army of Flanders captured the city from the French after the successful Siege of Calais. German text below the engraving describes the action. The engraving appeared as part of Hogenberg's Geschichtsblatter, or history broadsheets, a series of several hundred prints depicting various battles during the Dutch War of Independence, published between 1569 to 1637. After Frans Hogenberg's death in 1590, his publishing firm was continued well into the 17th century by his son, Abraham.

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Condition: B+

A dark impression on watermarked paper with some light toning, printer's ink residue along the borders, and a few minor spots.