Schip wordt de bocht om geholpen Possibly 1677 - 1696

Editor: We're looking at "Schip wordt de bocht om geholpen," likely created between 1677 and 1696 by an anonymous artist. It's an engraving, depicting a river scene with figures pulling a ship. The level of detail is really striking for such a small print. What's your interpretation of the historical context and purpose of this work? Curator: It’s interesting to think about the societal role of prints like this one. Engravings, in this period, were key for disseminating information and shaping public perceptions. This one, with the slightly clunky title that includes technical details of “getting a ship around the bend,” hints at its function. Do you notice the title including "Rimedio"? Editor: I see that, now that you point it out! Is it suggesting a kind of practical solution then? Curator: Exactly! We have an anonymous artist creating a blueprint for successful navigation – an easily reproducible guide within a rapidly expanding commercial society. Think of the Dutch Republic in the 17th century, heavily reliant on maritime trade. Disseminating this kind of knowledge would be crucial. Editor: So, it's less about high art and more about functional communication? Curator: Not exclusively, no. But it speaks to how art served multiple functions. It invites us to consider the agency and power of images within broader social, economic, and even political landscapes. Where was it printed? Who could afford these prints? What does that indicate about the intended audience? Editor: I never considered art in such a functional light, that is to say, considering that it's practical, and the influence of a particular time so intimately. Thanks! Curator: Of course. Considering its function and its historical position truly makes the image pop!