Schuiten in een sluis Possibly 1875 - 1877

August Allebé sketched ‘Boats in a lock’ in 1875, using graphite on paper. Graphite, a form of carbon, allows for a wide range of tonal values, seen here in the varying shades defining the boats, figures, and surrounding architecture. The linear quality of graphite is put to great effect, particularly in the detailed rendering of the wooden boats. These vessels are not just objects of transport; they are products of skilled labor, embodying the maritime industry of the time. The sketch captures a moment in the life of these working boats, paused in the lock, suggesting a brief respite in the cycle of labor and trade. Allebé's sketch invites us to consider not only the scene depicted, but the broader context of labor, industry, and the essential role of these boats in the economic life of the Netherlands. It underscores that the value of art lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in its ability to reflect the realities of the world around us.