Landschap met water en bomen 1879

This landscape with water and trees was etched by Alfred Elsen at the turn of the 20th century, a period marked by significant social and artistic transformations. Elsen, working within a society undergoing rapid industrialization, offers a tranquil, seemingly untouched natural scene. However, this pastoral representation can also be seen as a reflection of the cultural anxieties of his time. The rise of urban centers and factory work led to a longing for simpler, more agrarian times. This etching then isn't just a picture of trees and water. It becomes a commentary on the changing relationship between humanity and nature. Does it reflect a genuine appreciation for the natural world or an idealized escape from the gritty realities of modern life? Perhaps, both. What feelings does the artwork evoke in you?