Gezicht op paviljoen Welgelegen 1827 - 1873

This print, "Gezicht op paviljoen Welgelegen," was made by Hendrik Wilhelmus Last in the 19th century, using a technique called lithography. Lithography is fascinating because it relies on the resistance between grease and water. The artist draws an image with a greasy crayon onto a flat stone or metal plate. This surface is then treated so that the image attracts ink, while the surrounding areas repel it. When printed, the ink transfers only from the drawn areas, creating the image. Looking closely, you can see the subtle tonal variations achieved through this process, giving the print a delicate, almost dreamlike quality. The detailed lines capture the architecture of the pavilion and the surrounding landscape, while the softness of the lithographic technique lends a gentle atmosphere to the scene. This print represents a moment in time, preserved through a process that combines artistry, craft, and a bit of chemistry. Appreciating the labor involved in this traditional printmaking method allows us to understand its historical and cultural value, and enriches our engagement with the image itself.