Historische kaart van Nederland aan het begin van de jaartelling 1783

Editor: Here we have Abraham van Krevelt's "Historische kaart van Nederland aan het begin van de jaartelling," created in 1783 using ink and engraving. It depicts an old map... The intricate linework gives it a rather stark and academic feel, almost detached. What do you see in this piece? Curator: As a materialist, I find this map fascinating as an artifact of production. Look at the meticulous engraving. The lines aren't just representing geographical features, but are a result of skilled labor, a physical process that imprints an ideology onto the page. Consider the context of 1783 – what kind of resources and workshops were involved in its creation? How accessible would this map have been to the average person? Editor: I see your point. So, you're suggesting the act of making this map, the material process, is more important than just its representation of the land? Curator: Precisely. It challenges traditional boundaries by elevating what might be considered ‘craft’ – the physical engraving – to something worthy of consideration alongside its intended function as a geographical tool. What kind of consumer might want such a 'historical map'? Would the intended customer use this image for anything else than erudite consideration? Editor: Interesting. I was focusing on the image itself, but you’ve highlighted the value and labour invested. Curator: And the power structures embedded within those processes. By focusing on the means of production, we see how even something seemingly objective like a map can be loaded with social and economic meaning. How are maps constructed to this day? Does the current technology affect these questions about art, labor and materiality? Editor: That’s given me a completely new way to look at maps and prints! Curator: It’s a reminder that art is always entangled with the world around it, both materially and ideologically.