Landschap met Belgische emigranten 1789

Landschap met Belgische emigranten is an etching made by Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki. During the late 18th century, Europe was experiencing significant political and social upheaval. It was the age of revolution, and many people were displaced by war and persecution. This etching shows a group of Belgian emigrants, driven from their homes, seeking refuge elsewhere. The image presents us with an opportunity to consider the complexities of identity and belonging. Look at the figures; they are diverse in age, gender, and class. What might have been their lives before? How do you imagine they felt leaving their homes behind? The artist draws our attention to the human aspect of displacement.