Path between Trees 

Herman van Swanevelt made this print, "Path between Trees," in the 17th century, using etching. This process involves coating a metal plate with wax, then drawing through it with a sharp needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. What I find fascinating is how this repeatable, reproducible process – one deeply entwined with early capitalism – is here used to capture a seemingly timeless scene of nature. Look closely, and you’ll see the effect of the etching needle in the dense, scribbled lines that create the foliage and shadows. The figures are rendered with an economy of means, yet convincingly evoke a sense of peaceful rest. Consider the labour involved: the careful preparation of the plate, the controlled corrosion by the acid, and finally the printing itself. This contrasts markedly with the scene depicted, where the figures are taking rest and appreciating nature. In the end, "Path between Trees" reminds us that even the most seemingly straightforward images are the product of skilled work, and embedded in a wider context of production and consumption.