Dorpsgezicht 1603 - 1650

"Dorpsgezicht" (Village View), an etching by Matthäus Merian (1593-1650), is a detailed depiction of a small village nestled amongst dense trees. The scene is dominated by the village houses, rendered with meticulous detail, and features a winding road that leads into the distance, hinting at the village's connection to the wider world. The composition is balanced, using light and shade to highlight the architecture and natural features, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The small size of the print, 101 mm high and 151 mm wide, contributes to its intimate and detailed character, typical of Merian's work. This etching, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, provides a glimpse into 17th-century life in a small village setting, showcasing Merian's talent for capturing the picturesque beauty of the natural world.