The Captain Watching the Construction of a Fortress

Crispin de Passe the Younger learned the art of printmaking in his father’s workshop and went on to an independent career in engraving and publishing. Like his father, Crispin the Elder, he published books of prints, serving as both writer and illustrator. His engravings covered a wide range of subjects: portraiture, history, and current events. The French inscription indicates that this engraving was made during Crispin’s Paris period (1618-29) and reads, "In order to assuage your honor, and scorn death, you want to be protected in a fortress: And in order to live forever, you go away from the fort, where you can comfort your sinful soul."