Dredging a Canal 1640 - 1682

Jacob van Ruisdael made this drawing, "Dredging a Canal", using graphite and grey wash on paper. The marks are minimal, yet they describe a complex piece of engineering. Wooden beams support the apparatus, which stretches out into the water. The canal itself is indicated with a few quick strokes, suggesting the movement of water. The built environment is sketched in behind. Ruisdael's choice of medium is important here. Graphite and wash are relatively quick, allowing for efficient recording of information. This suggests that the drawing might have been made on site, perhaps as a study for a larger painting. But more than that, the drawing offers a glimpse into the Dutch Republic's investment in infrastructure. Keeping the canals clear was essential for trade and transportation, and this drawing celebrates the labor and technology that made it possible. Ultimately, "Dredging a Canal" reminds us that even the most seemingly straightforward landscape is the product of human intervention and ingenuity. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and consider the material and social forces that shape our world.