Ruïne van de begraafplaats van de familie Van der Capellen, 1788 1788

Pieter Hendrik Jonxis created this print in 1788 using etching and engraving techniques. These processes involve working directly on a metal plate, manipulating its surface to hold ink and create an image when pressed onto paper. The materiality of this print is defined by the intricate lines and textures achieved through these processes. Look closely, and you’ll see how Jonxis used these techniques to depict the ruin of the Van der Capellen family cemetery, giving us a glimpse into 18th-century social and political tensions. Engraving and etching were not merely about artistic expression; they were also tied to the rise of print culture and the dissemination of information. Consider the labor involved in creating such detailed work, and how this print may have served as a form of social commentary, reflecting on power, class, and the transience of human endeavors. It underscores the inherent connection between artistic creation, craftsmanship, and broader social concerns.