Stadsgezicht met kerk te Emmerik aan de Rijn Possibly 1731 - 1738

This cityscape with a church in Emmerik on the Rhine was drawn by Abraham de Haen the Younger, probably in the 1740s, with pen in brown ink, over a sketch in graphite. The use of pen and ink offers us a direct connection to the artist's hand, as though we are looking over his shoulder as he draws the scene. You can see the texture and weight of the lines varying from the light sketch in graphite, to the darker and more defined pen lines of the church and buildings. The choice of these specific materials and processes speaks to the practicalities of art creation during this time, alongside established traditions of artmaking. Drawing was a fundamental skill for artists, architects, and craftsmen alike. Considering the work involved in crafting this piece, from preparing the drawing surface to mixing the ink, reminds us of the labor and skill invested in every aspect of artistic creation. Ultimately, the act of making is at the heart of the artwork's meaning.