Gezicht op huis Petersburg 1719

Daniël Stopendaal created this print, "View of the House of Petersburg" somewhere between the late 17th and early 18th century using etching. This piece offers a glimpse into the constructed landscapes and social life of the Russian elite. Note how the formal gardens and grand estate serve as a backdrop for the elegantly dressed figures. These figures, their attire, and leisurely activities, speak volumes about social class and gender roles during this era. The image seems to propose a vision of order and control, where nature and society are carefully manicured. Yet, it's worth considering whose vision is being represented and at what cost such luxury was attained. Stopendaal's print invites us to reflect on the relationship between power, representation, and lived experience during a period of significant social stratification and nascent colonialism. It makes me wonder: how might the view from inside the house differ from this carefully constructed exterior?