Haventje 1885 - 1931

Frederika Henriëtte Broeksmit made this silvery print of a harbor; its date is unknown, but I'm thinking she made this using etching. The etching needle digs in to create a soft fuzz, and a lovely, almost ghostly atmosphere. Look at the way the masts are rendered with these long, wavering lines that fade in and out like breath on a cold day. The whole scene is pulled together through these lines, a symphony of tones between white and grey. I love how the boats are encrusted with detail, and the little scratches and bites that create a sense of depth and atmosphere overall. It feels honest, and handmade. It reminds me of Whistler, who was also interested in the poetics of atmosphere, and the beauty of the everyday. Ultimately, this print feels like a space for reflection. We are invited to look, linger, and imagine.