Landschap buiten Haarlem bij Bloemendaal 1759 - 1799

Steven Goblé rendered 'Landschap buiten Haarlem bij Bloemendaal' as a pen drawing sometime in the late 18th century. Goblé created this landscape during a time of political and economic upheaval in the Netherlands. The pastoral scene features a simple composition with two figures that appear to be taking in the scenery. Goblé lived during the Enlightenment, where there was a growing interest in natural science, a shift which may be reflected in the detailed rendering of the trees. During this time, landscapes became a popular genre, particularly among the rising middle class. While seemingly bucolic, there's a subtle tension. The rough, unfinished quality of the drawing might reflect the changing societal landscape. The figures seem caught between appreciating nature and facing the uncertainty of their era. What do you think they're discussing? How do you imagine their lives unfolding in this landscape?