Schepen in haven 1890

Curator: Floris Verster's 1890 etching, "Schepen in Haven," captures a harbor scene with an incredible flurry of lines. The print is held here at the Rijksmuseum. Editor: It's wonderfully frenetic, almost like a storm caught on a plate. There's such a strong sense of energy and industry here. Curator: The etching process really lends itself to that energy. Think about it: the artist dragging a needle across a metal plate, building up these complex webs of lines. It’s labour-intensive but allows for an incredible level of detail, albeit one in monochrome here. Editor: Monochrome emphasizes the material aspect; every tonal difference results directly from labor applied to a surface with tools. Also, note the reflections on the water — so cleverly achieved through the varying density of the etched lines. It’s practically vibrating. Curator: And Verster wasn't afraid to leave marks, either. Look at the haphazard lines above the ships themselves—they seem unfinished but still suggest the vastness of the sky and harbor. It almost reminds me of the quickness you see in some late Turner watercolors, but in reverse! The absence suggests presence here, much like in Impressionist painting. Editor: I see those raw marks less as about landscape or suggestion but more about economy of labor. I bet he made a whole series of harbor prints as part of a product for mass-market consumption. To get the job done quick, use line, but use line efficiently! This may be about industry in practice, as well as image. Curator: Well, whether intentional or just from the process, those open areas make the few distinct details sing. That single white sail catches the light perfectly! You get such a feeling of being on the docks, watching the masts sway. Editor: Fair point. The interplay of light and shadow are nicely crafted, whatever the intent or social impetus. Still, what strikes me is the sheer effort etched (pun intended) into every square inch of this little etching. Curator: So true. There is just such a personal investment in it! Well, hopefully listeners will go view it in person if they get the chance, or examine it more closely online to see for themselves! Editor: I agree. Every score mark here speaks volumes about the creative process in its social setting and the industrial methods used to create its aesthetic values. It is up to the individual what values or narratives that they discover in this intense but serene landscape.