Zeilschepen op open water 1890 - 1946

Cornelis Vreedenburgh rendered this sketch of sailing ships on open water in graphite. Notice how the sails form triangular shapes, a symbol echoing across cultures. From ancient Egyptian pyramids representing cosmic mountains to the Christian Trinity, the triangle embodies ascent, stability, and divine connection. Sailing ships themselves, throughout history, have represented journeys, exploration, and trade. This motif reappears in Roman mosaics depicting maritime commerce and Renaissance maps charting new worlds, each time layered with the aspirations and anxieties of its era. These basic shapes carry powerful subconscious associations, tapping into primal human desires for understanding and control. As we observe this sketch, consider how these historical echoes resonate, shaping our perception of the artist's composition. Through time, these images take on new meanings, yet their underlying power remains.