Veerpont tussen Dordrecht en Papendrecht c. 1884

Carel Nicolaas Storm van ‘s-Gravesande created this etching of the ferry between Dordrecht and Papendrecht. Made in the Netherlands, we can assume in the late 19th or early 20th century, the work shows how the country’s extensive waterways shaped its culture and economy. The image itself, with its industrial silhouettes on the horizon, speaks to the rapid changes in Dutch society. Consider the social and economic impact of the transition from traditional sailing vessels to steam-powered ferries. What did these changes mean for the working classes and for Dutch trade? To explore these questions further, one might consult local historical societies, maritime museums, and archives that contain shipping records and trade statistics. The image is a social document that opens up avenues for historical research, highlighting how art is always embedded in the material conditions of its time.