Twaalfde blad van een plattegrond van Amsterdam, overgetrokken op calqueerpapier 18th - 19th century

This is the "Twelfth sheet of a map of Amsterdam, traced on tracing paper," made by an anonymous artist. The drawing presents a maritime scene where the structural arrangement of ships and waves creates a dynamic interplay. Note how the composition is organized with a series of vessels scattered across the watery expanse, each meticulously outlined. The lines defining the ships and waves are not merely representational but contribute to a rhythmic quality, enhanced by the decorative border which frames the scene, adding a layer of artifice to the otherwise functional map. Observe the spatial relationships between objects. The ships' placement, their scale relative to the waves, and their orientation all affect our perception of space. The waves, rendered with repetitive strokes, create a sense of movement. The lack of a distinct vanishing point flattens the scene, drawing attention to the surface of the paper. Ultimately, the drawing functions both as a document and as a constructed image. It is a testament to how cartography involves not just observation but also artistic interpretation.