Optocht bij het huwelijk van Prinses Sophie, 1842 (plaat 2) 1842 - 1843

Carl Hess created this print in 1842, depicting the procession at the wedding of Princess Sophie. It is an etching, a printmaking process where lines are incised into a metal plate, inked, and then printed onto paper. Look closely, and you’ll see that the linear quality of the image is entirely determined by the etched line. The crisp delineation allows for a clear depiction of each horse-drawn carriage, enabling the viewer to study the details of the wedding procession. The lines aren't just descriptive; they give shape to the scene. Etching itself has a rich history, deeply intertwined with the rise of print culture and mass communication. The meticulous process speaks to the value placed on skilled handwork, but also the efficiencies of production. This print not only immortalizes a royal event but also reflects the broader social and economic landscape of its time. It reminds us of the labor involved in image-making, and the crucial link between craftsmanship and its cultural context.