Gezicht op de zij- en achterkant van Huis ten Bosch after 1717

This print depicts Huis ten Bosch, likely made in the 17th or 18th century, by an anonymous artist. It's an etching, created by drawing into a wax ground on a metal plate, then using acid to bite the exposed lines. The choice of etching speaks volumes. Unlike painting, which is unique and individual, etching allowed for the production of multiple images. This print could be disseminated, contributing to a broader public understanding and appreciation of Huis ten Bosch. The fine lines achieved through the etching process allow for intricate details, capturing the architectural nuances of the building and the structured formality of the gardens. However, the print also speaks to a hierarchy. While etching democratized image production to some extent, access to such prints would still have been largely limited to the wealthier classes, those with the leisure and means to collect and appreciate them. Ultimately, understanding this print involves looking beyond the image itself, and considering the social and economic factors that shaped its creation and consumption.