The Oude Haarlemmersluis (Old Haarlem Lock) on the Martelaarsgracht, Amsterdam c. 1638 - 1655

Jacob van Ruisdael’s drawing, “The Oude Haarlemmersluis (Old Haarlem Lock) on the Martelaarsgracht, Amsterdam”, is a delicate and detailed depiction of a canal lock in Amsterdam. The artist, known for his landscapes, captures the scene with a focus on the architectural details of the lock and the surrounding buildings. The use of graphite creates a subtle and atmospheric sense of light and shadow, highlighting the Dutch Golden Age’s artistic interest in capturing the everyday reality of the city.