Gezicht op een dorp aan een rivier c. 1850 - 1917

Johannes Arnoldus Boland created this print, “View of a Village on a River,” using etching techniques. The composition invites you into a serene yet detailed world, where the textures of water, foliage, and architecture merge to create a harmonious scene. Boland masterfully uses line and tone to construct depth. Notice how the intricate cross-hatching defines the cloudy sky and the rippling water, giving them a palpable sense of movement. The strategic placement of dark and light areas guides the eye from the bustling riverbank to the tranquil village nestled among trees. The structure of the image balances human activity with natural elements, suggesting a symbiotic relationship. The church spire, subtly placed, anchors the village and perhaps implies a moral or spiritual center. Yet, it's the textures and meticulously rendered details that truly capture the essence of this tranquil scene, inviting you to contemplate the interplay between nature, culture, and human presence. This etching offers a window into a world where every stroke contributes to a larger, cohesive vision.