Gezicht op Bussum 1889

Jan Veth created this print of Bussum, a town in the Netherlands, using etching. Consider the social dynamics of the late 19th century: the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and new technologies. Artists like Veth grappled with their rapidly changing world. He was active in the Dutch revival movement, which sought to celebrate regional identity through art and design. The choice to depict a rural town can be seen as a deliberate move away from the modern city, reflecting the nostalgic longing for a simpler, more traditional way of life. The quiet beauty of Bussum becomes a symbol of cultural pride. Understanding the role of institutions like the Rijksmuseum, where this print is housed, can also provide insights into the politics of art. How do museums shape our understanding of Dutch identity? What stories do they choose to tell, and whose voices are included or excluded? By researching the artist, the social context, and the institutional history of this artwork, we can better understand its meaning and significance.