This print is from a series depicting the aftermath of the bombardment of Brussels by the French in August 1695 during the War of the Grand Alliance. (The French hoped that by bombarding Brussels, they could draw troops away from the English siege of the nearby city of Namur. Their military strategy failed, however, and the English took Namur a few weeks later.) The extent of the damage was devastating; it is thought that some 4000 churches, municipal buildings, and private residences were destroyed. Soon after, Brussels-native Augustin Coppens executed drawings of prominent city landmarks laid waste by the bombardment, which he and fellow artist Richard van Orley then etched and engraved. These eleven views—two of which are included here—show Brussels returning to life, with soldiers patrolling the city and men clearing away the rubble. In Coppens’ frontispiece to the series, we see Mercury, messenger to the gods, showing a map of Namur to the distraught figure of Tyche, who represents the fortunes of Brussels. Shells from cannon shot are at her feet and in the background, Brussels is in flames.