Landschap met gezicht op het eiland Wight 1643

Wenceslaus Hollar created this etching of a landscape overlooking the Isle of Wight. Hollar, born in Prague, spent much of his career in England during a time of immense political and social upheaval. This landscape isn’t just a scenic view; it reflects the turbulent times Hollar lived through. During the 17th century, landscapes were often used to convey political messages. The Isle of Wight, visible in the distance, becomes a symbol of stability amidst the changing tides of English society. Hollar, as a Bohemian émigré, likely felt a sense of displacement keenly. Notice the two figures on horseback in the foreground. They seem to be surveying the land, perhaps contemplating their place in it. What do they feel as they look at Wight? This etching invites us to consider the intersection of personal experience and historical context. It reminds us that landscapes can be powerful reflections of identity and belonging, especially during times of profound change.