Zacharias Jansen, de uitvinder van de verrekijker, ca. 1590-1596 1865 - 1870

Curator: This is a print dating from 1865 to 1870, entitled "Zacharias Jansen, the Inventor of the Telescope, circa 1590-1596", after a design by Hendrik D. Jzn Sluyter, held here at the Rijksmuseum. It commemorates Jansen’s supposed invention. Editor: There's an appealing modesty to it, even in this reproduction. The scale of the print is intimate, isn’t it? The scene shows two figures closely examining something small and significant, while the viewer peeks into this important private moment. Curator: Indeed. Sluyter highlights the drama of invention. He gives us this scene in what appears to be Jansen’s workshop, complete with window light, table of implements and charts, all suggestive of learned experimentation. A celebration of Dutch innovation during a time of immense social and scientific change. Editor: What grabs me are the varying textures achieved within what I believe is an engraving. Look at the differences between the soft folds of the clothing and the sheen on the possible lenses. The labor is subtle yet pronounced, imbuing the image with a very tangible quality that really connects with its historical nature. It really makes you consider what would've been on hand in the making of such engravings. Curator: The print presents Jansen as a key figure in the burgeoning scientific revolution of the late 16th century, underscoring how technological advancements were rooted in careful observation and craftsmanship. His role then, not just in scientific advance, but of contributing to Holland’s own cultural and political standing. Editor: I agree. It’s this physical connection that really bridges the gap between now and then for me, emphasizing just how much thought and sweat would be required to both invent and create this artifact honoring an invention! Curator: I see your point. And thanks to art like this print, we can continue exploring this relationship between materiality and memory. Editor: Absolutely, a nice synthesis of subject and form!