The Discharge of the Wachtgelders by Prince Maurice

Attired in black, Prince Maurits watches as (mercenary) soldiers – so-called 'waardgelders' hired by the towns – here cast off their armour into a sizeable heap. Army commander Maurits put an end to the practice of hiring mercenaries in 1618. By disbanding them, he further consolidated his control over the municipal governments, quashing their ability to defend themselves.