Plate 4: The peace with the king of France in order to fight the Turks, from the Triumphs of Charles V

Art Historical Context

Step into the grand narrative of imperial triumph with *Plate 4: The with the king of France in order to fight the Turks from the series *Tphs of Charles V*. Created in 1614 by Dutch artist Jacques de Gheyn III Italian engraver Antonio Tempesta, etching and engraving captures a pivotal moment in the life of Holy Roman Emperor Charles (1500–1558). The scene likely depicts a ceremonial alliance or truce between Charles V and the French king—possibly Francis I—allowing the emperor to redirect forces against the Ottoman Turks, a recurring threat to Christian Europe during the 16th century. Printed on a generous sheet measuring 11 13/16 x 16 15/16 inches, the work buzzes with dynamic energy: soldiers on horseback, gleaming weapons, and resolute men in formation, evoking the pomp of Renaissance processions. De Gheyn's meticulous mannerist style, known for intricate details and dramatic compositions, pairs brilliantly with Tempesta's flair for equine and battle motifs, making this a masterful example of collaborative printmaking. Etching and engraving allowed for precise, reproducible imagery, disseminating tales of Habsburg glory across Europe. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department (The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, 1959), this plate not only glorifies Charles V's strategic diplomacy but also reflects early 17th-century fascination with history as propaganda, blending artistry with political legacy.