The Lake of Zurich c. 1660

Jan Hackaert made this landscape painting of the Lake of Zurich using oil on canvas. This was a common combination for the period, allowing for rich colors and smooth blending. While the scene seems natural, the hand of the artist is evident in the layers of paint, built up to create depth and atmosphere. Look at the way the light catches the clouds, or the subtle gradations of color in the hills. These effects were achieved through a slow, deliberate process of applying thin glazes of paint, a technique mastered by the Dutch Masters. But don’t let the beauty fool you. Even landscape painting is a product of labor, both the artist’s and those who provided his materials. From the grinding of pigments to the weaving of canvas, countless hands contributed to this image. So, next time you admire a landscape, consider the many layers of making that lie beneath the surface. This approach expands the boundaries of traditional art history, challenging distinctions between high art and craft.