Zeilboot en sloep 1797 - 1838

Johannes Christiaan Schotel made this drawing of a sailboat and sloop in the early 19th century, using graphite on paper. The fine lines capture the intricate details of the ships, from the rigging to the curve of the hull. Schotel's technique highlights the labor involved in shipbuilding and sailing; industries that were central to the Dutch economy and culture. The drawing possesses a technical quality, indicative of the drafting process. The visible process emphasizes a connection between the artist's hand and the broader world of maritime commerce, navigation, and labor. By focusing on the materiality of the ships, Schotel's drawing elevates the craftsmanship and the labor that went into creating these vessels. It offers a glimpse into the material culture of maritime activity and prompts us to consider the complex relationships between art, industry, and society.