Gezicht op een Hollandse gracht 1881

Auguste Boulard made this print of a Dutch canal scene sometime between his birth in 1852 and his death in 1912. The view presents us with a romantic image of Holland: a quaint canal, a small arched bridge, and historic buildings with stepped gables. Looking at this image, it is tempting to see it as a neutral record. However, prints like these were often made and circulated for the tourist trade. The artist has chosen a viewpoint that emphasizes the old-fashioned charm of the city, likely to appeal to visitors seeking an authentic Dutch experience. Elements of everyday life are visible, but the focus is on the picturesque architecture. To understand the print more fully, we might research the history of tourism in the Netherlands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. We might also consider the relationship between art and commerce. By situating this artwork in its historical context, we can better appreciate its cultural significance.