Gezicht op landhuis De Wildbaan, Driebergen 1903 - 1907

Henry Pauw van Wieldrecht made this photograph of the De Wildbaan country house in Driebergen, Netherlands, in the late 19th or early 20th century. It captures a serene waterside view, reflecting the surrounding trees. During this period, the Netherlands was experiencing a surge in industrialization and urbanization. Yet, there remained a strong cultural attachment to the countryside, particularly among the wealthy. Country estates like De Wildbaan were symbols of status. Photography, still relatively new, was increasingly used to document and celebrate such properties, reinforcing their owners' social standing. The Rijksmuseum, as an institution, played a role in legitimizing photography as an art form, showcasing images that reflected national identity and cultural values. To truly understand this photograph, we would need to delve into the history of the De Wildbaan estate, the social networks of its owners, and the evolving role of photography in Dutch society. By examining estate records, social registers, and photographic journals, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the image.