De provincie Gelderland. 372,000 inwoners 1850

Editor: This is a fascinating print! It's titled "De provincie Gelderland. 372,000 inwoners," made in 1850 by Jan Schuitemaker. It’s an engraving on paper. What strikes me most is how it blends cartography with these almost picturesque vignettes of different places. What do you make of it? Curator: It's like stepping back in time, isn't it? This isn't just a map; it's a portal. Think about it: Gelderland in 1850—before cars, before mass media. These images aren’t just geographical representations. They're trying to capture the very essence, the feeling, the spirit of the place. And you're right to pick up on the picturesque aspect. Landscape prints like this were hugely popular at the time. Editor: So, more than just factual? Curator: Absolutely! Schuitemaker’s including a map—he’s selling you information, yes, a slice of the world in your hands, if you will. It’s also about creating a sense of belonging, a feeling of connection to one's homeland. Even stirring pride, maybe, by depicting historical landmarks, pretty sights in town, the whole shebang! Did it succeed at making you feel proud to be a Gelderlander? Editor: I don't know, but it certainly sparks my curiosity about what life was like then. I'm also fascinated by how information was disseminated at the time. These prints must have been quite a source of local news. Curator: Precisely! So we might call that, perhaps, visual communication meets… propaganda! All that beauty hides something: it is, above all, efficient and highly effective information. Food for thought, huh? Editor: Definitely something I'll consider next time I'm exploring art. Thank you! Curator: Pleasure's all mine. The past has many treasures for you.