De Hogerwoerdse Poort te Leiden vanaf de Singel gezien 1786 - 1839

Pieter Gerardus van Os made this watercolor of the Hogerwoerdse Poort in Leiden with watercolor on paper. The wispy strokes of watercolor paint create a scene of pastoral simplicity; the artist uses thin washes to capture the effect of light on the water, and soft blending to depict the natural forms of trees. The entire image is built from these delicate marks and gestures. But despite the delicate handling, this work also speaks to broader systems of labor. We see figures working on the water, their boats laden with reeds. The artist's work, too, can be understood as labor. A tradition in landscape painting was born during this period. It captured a changing social landscape with increasing industrialization and urbanization, as well as provided a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we can understand the full meaning of an artwork, and challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.