Gezicht op het eiland Goeree 1781 - 1787

This print, "Gezicht op het eiland Goeree," was created by Mathias de Sallieth, likely in the late 18th century, using etching and engraving. These processes involve incising lines into a metal plate, inking the plate, and then transferring the image to paper under high pressure. The material quality of this print hinges on the artist’s technical mastery of these graphic techniques. Look closely, and you’ll see how the varying depths and densities of lines create tonal variation, conveying the rough seas and stormy sky. This was a laborious process, demanding a deep understanding of how each mark would translate into the final image. Prints like these played a vital role in disseminating information and shaping public perception. They were relatively affordable compared to paintings, making imagery accessible to a broader audience. This print not only depicts a specific place, the island of Goeree, but also reflects the economic and social context of maritime trade and Dutch power during this period. Appreciating the process of its making helps us understand its cultural significance.