Gezicht op Patras Possibly 1679 - 1717

Willem Swidde made this print of Patras sometime between 1661 and 1697, using etching and engraving. At first glance, the scene seems like a straightforward depiction of a port city, yet it invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in such images. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was a major maritime power, and depictions of foreign lands often served to assert dominance and project an image of control. Here, the orderly arrangement of buildings and the bustling harbor suggest a European perspective, one that seeks to categorize and control the landscape. Yet, it is important to remember that Patras, like many other places depicted in Dutch prints, had its own rich history and culture long before European involvement. By focusing on the visual representation of the city, Swidde’s work prompts us to reflect on how cultural narratives are constructed and whose perspectives are prioritized. It is an invitation to look beyond the surface and ask critical questions about the representation of place, power, and identity.