Bomen met kastjes aan de stammen, vermoedelijk bij Arcachon 1897

This vintage print, "Trees with boxes on the trunks, presumably near Arcachon," captures a common practice of resin extraction. These boxes, affixed to the trunks, speak of human intervention, a dialogue between man and nature. The image evokes a sense of the forest as a site of labor, a concept that resonates throughout history. Even in ancient times, forests have been viewed not only as places of refuge but also as sources of raw materials. One might compare this to the use of forests as a backdrop for Romantic paintings, where nature is idealized. Here, the addition of these boxes transforms nature into something productive, industrial. Consider the psychological impact of this transformation: the boxes could evoke feelings of safety, productivity, or even a sense of unease. These boxes, like eyes, stare back at us, reminding us of our impact on the environment. The image remains a powerful reminder of our enduring relationship with the natural world.