Drie zeilschepen op de Maas 1876 - 1910

Alphonse Stengelin created this etching, "Drie zeilschepen op de Maas", rendering three sailing ships on the Maas river. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a growing artistic interest in depicting landscapes and scenes of everyday life. Stengelin’s work reflects a cultural interest in maritime activity and the natural environment. The almost dreamlike state of this print invites us to consider the relationship between individuals and the broader forces that shape their lives. How do we navigate the waters of our own lives? In what ways do we harness the winds of change to propel ourselves forward? The choice of a maritime subject can also evoke contemplation on themes of trade, exploration, and the interconnectedness of societies. It serves as a reminder of our shared humanity and the ways in which our destinies are intertwined.