View of the Golden Bend on the Herengracht Canal, Amsterdam c. 1694

This print of the Golden Bend on the Herengracht Canal in Amsterdam, was made by Jan van Call around the turn of the 18th century. It’s made with etching and watercolor, a combination that allowed for the efficient production of topographical views, which were very popular at the time. The etching provides the underlying structure, the precise lines of the buildings and the cobblestone street. But it's the watercolor that really brings the scene to life, softening the rigid lines and adding depth to the water, the sky, and the foliage. The process begins with the drawing itself, each line carefully bitten into the metal plate with acid. Then, the watercolorist would have to apply the colors in thin, even washes, working from light to dark, creating a sense of atmosphere and depth. This combination of techniques wasn’t just about aesthetics, it speaks to the booming economy of the Dutch Golden Age. It met the demand for images of urban life while also showcasing the wealth and prosperity of Amsterdam. The print bridges the gap between the precision of printmaking and the expressiveness of painting, reminding us that art is always embedded in a larger social and economic context.