Hermann tijdens de picknick in gesprek met Emilie 1799

This etching by Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki, titled "Hermann tijdens de picknick in gesprek met Emilie," depicts a scene from a novel. Created in 1799, the work features a group of people, likely a family, enjoying a picnic in a wooded setting. The central figures, Hermann and Emilie, are engaged in a conversation, while other figures stand around them. The artwork's intimate scale, measuring only 120 mm by 78 mm, suggests a personal and intimate nature. This piece, part of the Rijksmuseum collection, exemplifies Chodowiecki's mastery of etching and his ability to capture everyday scenes with detail and nuance. The artist's use of line and shading creates a sense of depth and atmosphere, allowing viewers to step into the world of the characters. This work provides insight into social customs and leisure activities in 18th-century Europe, making it a valuable historical document.