Nuttige dieren 1869 - 1882

This print, "Nuttige Dieren," or "Useful Animals," was made by Gerhardus Philippus Zalsman, sometime in the 19th century. It presents us with a visually ordered display of various creatures, each carefully rendered with a subdued palette of greens, browns, and greys. Notice how Zalsman arranges these animals, not in a naturalistic setting, but rather as specimens within a structured grid. This organization speaks to a desire for classification, a common thread in 19th-century scientific thought. It’s almost as if we’re viewing a page from an encyclopaedia, where each animal is neatly categorised and presented for study. Consider the lines defining each form; they’re precise, almost diagrammatic, prioritising clarity over expressive flourish. The semiotic function here is clear: these animals are presented as symbols of utility, stripped of their wildness and framed within the context of human use. Ultimately, Zalsman's work underscores how visual representation can transform living beings into objects of knowledge and utility, a powerful testament to the cultural and philosophical currents of its time.