Zeilschepen op het water c. 1841 - 1865

Petrus Johannes Schotel drew these sailboats on water using graphite on paper in the mid-19th century. The choice of graphite as a medium is noteworthy; its accessibility allowed artists to create preparatory sketches and studies, capturing fleeting moments like these ships. Here, the graphite delicately defines the sails and hulls, reflecting the interplay of light and shadow on the water's surface. Schotel's technique of quick, light strokes conveys the dynamism of maritime activity, while the texture of the paper adds a tactile quality to the scene. The social context of this drawing is tied to the rise of maritime trade and naval power during the 19th century. By focusing on materials and making, we recognize the cultural significance embedded in this seemingly simple sketch, bridging the gap between fine art and the everyday experience of seafaring.