Landschap met poldermolen 1766 - 1815

Jacob van Strij created this landscape with a polder mill using pen, brush and watercolor. Look closely and you will notice that the physical properties of these media allow for fine lines and delicate washes. The artist applied ink with a sharp nib to define the architectural details of the mill, while also using broad brushstrokes to capture the wetness of the marshy landscape. Consider the labor involved; van Strij had to have a deep understanding of how each material would behave to achieve this naturalistic effect. This scene isn't just a pretty picture, it's a record of human intervention in the natural world. Poldermills like this were essential for draining low-lying land, making it suitable for agriculture. In the Netherlands in the 18th and 19th centuries, this technology influenced both the economy and the social structure. By paying attention to materials and processes, we can better appreciate the connection between art, labor, and social context in van Strij’s evocative landscape.