The Dairy Cow: The Dutch Provinces, Revolting against the Spanish King Philip II, Are Led by Prince William of Orange, The States General Entreat Queen Elizabeth I for Aid
The Dairy Cow: The Dutch Provinces, Revolting against the Spanish King Philip II, Are Led by Prince William of Orange, The States General Entreat Queen Elizabeth I for Aid, 1633 anonymous
This satirical artwork cleverly portrays the political state of the Netherlands through symbolism. The Netherlands is depicted as a cow ridden by King Philip II of Spain, indicating his dominating position. Queen Elizabeth I of England, offering nourishment to the cow, represents her support for the Dutch. Underneath the cow, Prince William I of Orange is seen drinking from its udder, signifying his role in leading the Dutch revolt. Meanwhile, the Duke of Anjou is given the less flattering role of holding the cow's tail and being defecated upon. A group of nobles watches this spectacle unfold in the background.
