Vrouw in klederdracht die op een voordeur klopt in Edam Possibly 1914 - 1919

This print, by Wijnand Otto Jan Nieuwenkamp, shows a woman in traditional dress knocking on a door in Edam. The all-over mark-making feels like it builds up, layer by layer, into the scene. The incredible detail comes from the physicality of the medium itself, a kind of meditative, repetitive practice. Look at how the surface is built up, each tiny line contributing to the whole, creating a rich, almost tactile texture. The contrast between the dark, dense foliage and the lighter, open space of the courtyard is so striking. This reminds me of the work of Piranesi, who also conjured up fantastical, intricate scenes, using a similar linear approach. The whole composition has such a timeless quality, like a scene from a dream. The perspective is a little wonky. It’s like the scene embraces ambiguity. It's this kind of questioning, that keeps me interested in art.