Prospect of the inner part of Tangier 1665 - 1675

Wenceslaus Hollar created this print of Tangier in the 17th century using etching. The image strikes us with its intricate linework and detailed composition, offering a panoramic view of the city. The eye is immediately drawn to the formidable wall and castle dominating the landscape, an imposing structure that divides the city from the open sky. This division creates a visual hierarchy, suggesting themes of power and surveillance. The city itself is a dense collection of buildings, depicted with careful attention to their geometric forms. Hollar uses line and perspective to convey depth, drawing the viewer into the urban space. The use of etching allows for fine detail, evident in the textures of the buildings and the shading that gives them volume. This formal precision invites us to consider the role of representation itself, and how such images participate in constructing a visual understanding of place and power. The artwork serves not just as a depiction, but also as an interpretation of the spatial and political dynamics of Tangier at the time.