Vlammende zon 1672

Curator: This etching by Albert Flamen, made around 1672, is titled "Vlammende Zon" or "Flaming Sun". Editor: It’s such a striking image—that blazing sun almost vibrates off the paper. The etching is delicate, but the feeling is monumental. Curator: Yes, the drama is certainly present. Flamen created this print utilizing an etching technique to produce very precise lines. The tools used in this era allowed for more flexible design processes, where one could replicate images widely at low costs and disseminate new visual perspectives to different audiences. Editor: What intrigues me most is how this image speaks to power structures. The sun, of course, has long been a symbol of sovereignty, here dominating a cityscape—implying the vast reach of some potent force, maybe even the King. Curator: The lines certainly help define and clarify details in the architecture and add dynamism to the bodies of water and sky above. This form of material production highlights how images are able to become more widely available for consumers within Dutch society. Editor: There’s an interesting tension, isn’t there? The text reads "Il ne se peut Enfermer" or "No Se Insierra," suggesting the sun cannot be contained. But below, that town huddles behind defensive walls. Curator: That’s a wonderful point. The text adds a fascinating layer to the work, reflecting both freedom and the tangible material concerns of its audience. The contrast underscores human-led means for fortification of city space. Editor: I can't help but consider what a paradox that represents—the powerful needing to shield themselves from an uncontrollable force, but the sun ultimately surpassing it all! It feels very topical considering today’s climate anxiety! Curator: Right. Looking closely at its construction also tells us of labor involved. These processes have an entire line of creative industry that produces it, employing skilled artisans working in what one might now consider to be part of our contemporary society of creative industries. Editor: It certainly provides us plenty to contemplate in regards to image, labor and historical context! Curator: Indeed, Flamen's etching speaks volumes through its craftsmanship and the circumstances that define the processes that are implemented in art creation.