Vuurwerk in de paleistuin, 1686 1686 - 1687

Romeyn de Hooghe made this print, Fireworks in the Palace Garden, in 1686 using etching and engraving techniques. The effect depends entirely on the artist's skill with line. Look closely, and you'll see that he created a complex visual language using only the contrast between black marks and white paper. De Hooghe was a master of this kind of printmaking, which allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of images. The print celebrates an event, and also advertises the power of the person being celebrated. In other words, it’s propaganda. The combination of artistry and social messaging gives the print a unique power, placing it between the traditions of craft and fine art. And think about all the labor involved: not just De Hooghe's, but the artisans who set up the fireworks display, and those who built the palace in the background! All of these efforts speak to a society structured around displays of wealth and authority.