De jacht c. 1663 - 1683

This is 'De jacht', or 'The Hunt', an etching made by Romeyn de Hooghe, an artist born in 1645. The work presents a layered composition filled with figures engaged in a hunting scene. The foreground shows a body of water with men in a boat, while the mid-ground features hunters with firearms, dogs, and tall grasses. The structure of the landscape is established with the horizon line, creating depth and separating the earth from the sky. The use of line is particularly striking, with fine, precise marks constructing both form and texture. The density of lines varies to create shading and volume, giving weight to the figures and a sense of depth to the landscape. The textures are also delicately rendered, from the fur of the dogs to the fabric of the hunters' clothing. These formal elements invite us to consider the cultural context of hunting as a social and economic activity, reflecting themes of nature, human intervention, and social hierarchy. The artist's masterful use of line and composition adds layers of meaning to this detailed scene.