Bospad met twee figuren 1635 - 1660

Johan de Lagoor made this etching, ‘Bospad met twee figuren’, which translates as ‘Wooded Path with Two Figures’, sometime in the mid-17th century. The image depicts two figures walking along a path surrounded by dense trees and foliage. De Lagoor was working during the Dutch Golden Age, a period when the Netherlands experienced significant economic, scientific, and artistic growth. During this time, there was also a growing merchant class that wanted art that reflected their values and interests. Landscapes became increasingly popular, as they celebrated the beauty and prosperity of the Dutch countryside. The etching technique allowed for the creation of multiple copies, making art more accessible to a wider audience. The figures in the landscape might reflect a growing interest in everyday life and the individual’s place within the natural world, moving away from grand historical or religious themes. Understanding the context in which art is made requires us to consider the social, economic, and cultural forces at play, and art historical research provides the resources to do just that.