Molens in avondschemering 1886

Jan Veth created this print, "Molens in avondschemering," using etching, a process of mark-making with acid on a metal plate. It’s a deeply traditional process, dating back centuries. The magic of etching lies in its ability to capture subtle tonal variations, creating an atmospheric scene. Look at the velvety blacks and hazy grays. These are achieved through careful control of the etching process, the amount of time the plate spends in the acid bath. The print evokes a sense of stillness, of time slowing down, reflecting the importance of mills in the pre-industrial landscape. Mills were crucial for local economies, providing power for grinding grain, sawing wood, and other essential tasks. Veth’s choice of this subject matter therefore wasn't just aesthetic; it was about capturing the spirit of a changing society, one that would soon be eclipsed by industrial production. So, in this quiet image, we see the looming shadow of a different kind of labor. It’s a reminder that even the most seemingly tranquil works of art are embedded in wider social and economic realities.