Amsterdam. Paleis v. Volksvlijd 1900 - 1920

This small print of the Paleis v. Volksvlijd in Amsterdam, likely made with a chromolithographic process, uses a limited range of tones to build up a complex architectural image. I find myself drawn to the way the artist embraces the soft focus effect. The muted greens, browns, and grays give the scene a hazy, dreamlike quality. Look closely, and you’ll see how the artist used tiny dots of color to create depth and texture. The surface is smooth, yet the layering of colors gives a sense of dimensionality, especially when we look at the facade of the building. The dome feels like it almost fades into the sky, an effect perhaps influenced by early photography. It reminds me of the paintings of Camille Pissarro, who similarly captured the light and atmosphere of urban landscapes. Like Pissarro’s work, this print invites us to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the everyday. It’s a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places.