Rivierlandschap 1636 - 1695

This is Nicolas Perelle's 'Rivierlandschap', a print showcasing a riverscape, created sometime in the 17th century. Perelle’s tranquil scene is steeped in the artistic and social conventions of his time. During this period, landscape art was not merely about depicting nature, but also about conveying social status, wealth, and control over the land. It was a time of growing merchant power in the Netherlands, with new money wanting to depict their place in the world. Here, the imagined landscape is carefully constructed to present an idealized vision of nature, reflecting the aesthetic preferences of the era. This idyllic landscape also prompts us to consider what is not shown. The focus on beauty and serenity often obscured the harsh realities of the time, such as poverty and social inequality. In this way, the print serves as a reminder of how art can reflect both the values and the omissions of a particular society.