Droogmaking der Plassen in Schieland, beoosten Rotterdam Possibly 1869

"Droogmaking der Plassen in Schieland, beoosten Rotterdam" (Drying Out of the Pools in Schieland, East of Rotterdam) is a black and white photograph by Jacobus van Gorkom jr. The photograph, likely taken in 1869, depicts construction workers building a dam or a dike. This image provides a glimpse into the laborious process of land reclamation in the Netherlands during the 19th century, a significant engineering feat that continues to shape the country’s landscape today. The image's stark realism and historical significance make it a compelling example of documentary photography.