Dogepaleis in Venetië 1873 - 1931

Etienne Bosch made this print of the Doge’s Palace in Venice, using a drypoint technique to create soft, velvety lines. I love the way the image seems to emerge from the paper, like a memory or a dream. The whole image is built from tiny, scribbled lines and cross-hatching, creating a sense of depth and texture that almost feels like you could reach out and touch the stone. There's a real feeling of light, with the palest parts of the paper left almost bare. And then there are these darker areas, full of shadow and mystery. Look at the archway, how it pulls you in? The level of detail is pretty amazing. You can see the architectural details, the ornate carvings, without it feeling too tight or controlled. Bosch's print reminds me of Whistler, with that same interest in capturing a mood or an impression rather than a literal depiction. Ultimately, it invites you to slow down, to look closely, and to find your own way into the image.