Dakconstructie c. 1864

Willem Springer Jr. made this drawing, Dakconstructie, likely in the 19th century, using pencil on paper. While seemingly a simple technical drawing, this work gives us insight into the labor and materials required to construct buildings at the time. The lines, though spare, reveal the intricate joinery necessary to support a roof, the careful planning needed to distribute weight, and the skilled craftsmanship involved in working with wood. This drawing isn't just a depiction of a structure; it's a record of the embodied knowledge of carpenters and builders. Consider the social context: the rise of industrialization was transforming construction practices, yet traditional methods still held sway. Drawings like these were crucial for communicating designs and ensuring quality in a world increasingly driven by mass production. By appreciating the materiality and making of this drawing, we recognize the value of skilled labor and the enduring relevance of craft in a changing world.