De sluis te Spaarndam Possibly 1775 - 1777

Hendrik Spilman's "De sluis te Spaarndam" (circa 1775-1777) is a detailed watercolor depiction of the lock at Spaarndam, a town near Haarlem in the Netherlands. Spilman, a Dutch artist known for his topographical views, captures the bustling activity of the waterway with precise brushstrokes. The scene unfolds with a wooden structure leading over the lock, where figures traverse on foot and horseback. The surrounding buildings and trees add depth to the composition, while the distant boats and figures convey a sense of movement and human scale. This work offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in 18th-century Holland, showcasing Spilman's ability to render architectural detail and capture the fleeting moments of everyday life.