Hillegaert, Pauwels van – De aftocht van het Spaanse garnizoen na de overgave van ’s-Hertogenbosch, 17 september 1629, 1630 - 1635 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The canvas presents a vast panorama dominated by a receding procession of figures and animals across a low-lying landscape. A subdued palette of browns, greens, and greys establishes a somber atmosphere, punctuated only by the muted tones of the sky above. The composition is structured around a diagonal line leading from the lower left corner towards the distant city on the horizon.
Here we see a large contingent of soldiers, seemingly defeated, moving away from an urban center. They are accompanied by numerous pack animals – horses and oxen – laden with supplies or equipment. The figures appear weary and dejected; their postures suggest exhaustion rather than military pride. A sense of order is maintained within the group, but it’s a forced order, born of necessity rather than triumph.
The artist has placed the city on the horizon as a focal point, yet its details are indistinct, suggesting a loss of power or influence. The landscape itself appears flat and featureless, contributing to the overall feeling of desolation. A river winds through the scene, acting as both a geographical marker and potentially symbolizing the flow of events – the departure of one force and the potential arrival of another.
The sky is overcast, with heavy clouds that press down on the scene, reinforcing the mood of defeat and uncertainty. The absence of vibrant color or dramatic action directs attention to the sheer scale of the retreat and the quiet dignity of those involved.
Subtly embedded within this depiction are elements hinting at a narrative beyond the immediate event. The presence of civilians observing from the left side of the frame suggests a broader societal impact, while the orderly nature of the departure implies a negotiated surrender rather than a chaotic rout. The painting conveys not just an account of military action but also a meditation on loss, resilience, and the enduring landscape that witnesses human conflict.