Gezicht op verschillende daken 1877

This is ‘Gezicht op verschillende daken’ by Piet Verhaert, made with etching. The composition is dominated by a dense array of rooftops and chimneys, depicted with a network of fine, linear strokes. The limited tonal range creates a subdued, almost melancholic atmosphere. Verhaert’s etching utilizes line as a primary means to construct form and space. The varying densities of lines suggest depth and texture, while the structural arrangement invites comparison with modernist architectural drawings. The image, with its repetitive forms and compressed space, could be seen as a commentary on urban expansion and its effects on individual perception. Consider how Verhaert uses the etching technique to create a tension between detail and abstraction. The fine lines capture the intricate textures of the rooftops, yet the overall composition flattens the space, challenging traditional perspective. This interplay between detail and abstraction encourages us to reconsider our relationship with the urban environment and how it is represented.