Hofje van Loo in Haarlem 1897

Wijnand Otto Jan Nieuwenkamp made this print of the Hofje van Loo in Haarlem. Look closely and you'll notice a dense network of finely etched lines; these are the result of Nieuwenkamp's mastery of the etching process. A metal plate, likely copper, would have been coated with a waxy ground, upon which the artist scratched the image. Dipped in acid, the exposed lines would bite into the metal, leaving behind an intricate design. This level of detail is remarkable, especially when we consider the time and labor involved. Nieuwenkamp had to work meticulously, ensuring each line contributed to the overall composition. The result is a stunning record of the architecture and atmosphere of the Hofje, full of light and shadow. Considered a master of graphic arts during his time, Nieuwenkamp elevated printmaking to a high art. His dedication to craft transformed industrial processes into deeply personal expressions.