A Camel 1646

Cornelis Saftleven created this drawing of a camel using pen and brown ink with watercolor in 1646. Saftleven spent almost his entire career in and around Rotterdam, a major port city. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic, profiting from its global trade networks, became a major economic power. Seen through this lens, the camel becomes more than just an exotic animal. It speaks to the Dutch Republic’s burgeoning global reach and its central role in international commerce. This drawing reflects the social and economic transformations brought about by trade and cross-cultural exchange. The camel stands as a symbol of connectivity, illustrating the interconnectedness of distant lands and cultures through trade. Consider the lives and experiences of the people who encountered these animals in transit, their stories and contributions are often overlooked. As you contemplate this drawing, think about the complex histories of global trade, the human labor, and the cultural exchanges that have shaped our world.