Satirical Print about Alva’s Statue
An imposing statue of Alva is unveiled in Antwerp in 1571. The statue is subject to fierce ridicule in this print. As a veritable tyrant Alva tramples on Justice, Truth, an Orphan and a Widow. Armies hold sway over the country. But who charges in at the right? Why William of Orange! Meanwhile Beggars (identifiable by their beggars’ bowls) take back their stolen hearts from the base of the statue.