Gezicht op de Biesbosch bij Dordrecht c. 1880

Carel Nicolaas Storm van 's-Gravesande created this etching called 'Gezicht op de Biesbosch bij Dordrecht'. During the late 19th century, landscape art wasn't just about pretty scenery, it often reflected a deeper connection to national identity and the changing face of Dutch society. There is something deeply gendered about landscape. Historically, land has often been tied to power structures, ownership, and the patriarchy. The Biesbosch, a unique wetland area, could be seen as a symbol of Dutch resilience, a place where people lived in harmony with nature. But it's also a place shaped by human intervention, reflecting the ongoing tension between nature and culture. In a time of rapid industrialization, artists like van 's-Gravesande were drawn to the quiet beauty of the countryside, perhaps longing for a simpler way of life. These works encourage us to consider our own place within this landscape.