Sloot met twee boten 1870 - 1931

Willem Bastiaan Tholen created this etching, “Sloot met twee boten”, using metal and acid. This traditional printmaking process involves coating a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant substance, drawing an image through it, and then submerging the plate in acid. The acid bites into the exposed metal, creating grooves that hold ink. What I find so fascinating about etchings is how the artist coaxes such a wide range of tones from what is essentially a linear medium. Look closely, and you'll see the network of fine lines that create the image. The density of these lines determines the darkness of the area, and the way Tholen layers and manipulates them gives depth and texture to the tranquil waters and foliage. This print is not just a picture, but an artifact of a specific artistic process. By understanding the labor and skill involved in etching, we gain a greater appreciation for the image itself, and recognize the connections between art, craft, and the cultural landscape.