Gezicht op burcht Pfalzgrafenstein bij Kaub 1688 - 1698

Jan van Call made this delicate watercolor and ink drawing of Pfalzgrafenstein Castle near Kaub, likely in the late 17th century. The artwork is a beautiful example of the techniques used at the time for topographical studies. Van Call employed fine lines and translucent washes to capture the unique light and atmosphere of the Rhineland. Look closely, and you can see how the texture of the paper itself influences the appearance of the drawing, catching the light and softening the details. The circular format is also interesting; it evokes the lens of a telescope or camera obscura, both of which were new technologies at the time. While the scene appears calm and serene, the castle speaks to the tumultuous times. Built on a small island in the middle of the Rhine, it was strategically positioned to collect tolls from passing ships. Each brushstroke reminds us of the connection between artistic practice, the representation of power, and the social context.