Bomen en waterval 1745

Carl Albert von Lespilliez made this print, “Bomen en waterval,” which translates to "Trees and Waterfall," using etching. Look closely, and you will see that the landscape is depicted through a network of fine lines cut into a metal plate. Acid would have been applied to bite into these lines, allowing them to hold ink, and then printed onto paper. The final image is defined by its linework, with shadows and textures rendered through hatching and cross-hatching. The image is more than just a landscape, as its rococo border, complete with cherubs and foliage, is a testament to the decorative tastes of the time, and emphasizes how prints circulated not only as art objects, but as sources of inspiration for artisans in all media. The contrast between the natural scene and ornate border invites us to consider how the print itself mediates between nature and culture. It suggests a world carefully shaped by human hands and ingenuity. It’s a reminder of the value of craft and design in shaping our perceptions and experiences.