Jachtpaleis Zarzuela buiten Madrid 1694 - 1737

Pieter van den Berge’s etching presents the Jachtpaleis Zarzuela outside Madrid, capturing a moment of serene grandeur through precise lines and a delicate color palette. The architecture is meticulously detailed, reflecting a structured and formal approach, where symmetry and order dominate the composition. The landscape, while present, serves primarily as a backdrop to emphasize the Palace's stately presence. The interplay of lines creates a sense of depth and perspective, guiding the viewer's eye through the manicured gardens towards the Palace. Berge’s technique invites a semiotic reading of the spatial relationships; the careful arrangement of elements signifies control, power, and the taming of nature. The Palace is not merely depicted but constructed as a symbol within a defined visual language. The use of etching allows for fine details that highlight the structure's form. This precise handling suggests that the image functions as a statement of architectural and social ideals.