Nieuwjaarswens van de Amsterdamse nachtwacht voor het jaar 1855 1854 - 1855

Friedrich Robert Prinz created this New Year's greeting card for the Amsterdam Night Watch in 1855 using etching, a printmaking technique. Lines are incised into a metal plate, likely copper, with acid, allowing for the transfer of detailed imagery onto paper. The material quality of this print, its fine lines and tonal gradations, speaks to the skill involved in its production. The architecture, meticulously rendered, reflects Amsterdam’s urban landscape, while the ornate floral motifs add a touch of elegance. Consider the labor-intensive process of etching, where each line requires careful planning and execution. It would have been printed in multiples, a key aspect of the industrial revolution at this time. The card also highlights social divisions, contrasting the city’s grand architecture with the Night Watch's role in maintaining order and security for Amsterdams burghers (citizens). By focusing on the materials, making, and social context, we can better understand the full meaning of this artwork, challenging any perceived boundary between fine art and craft.