Tools c. 1590 - 1596

round shape

3d printed part

rounded shape

sculpture

sculptural image

unrealistic statue

3d shape

stoneware

regular shape

cutout

This anonymous 16th-century "Tools" is a simple yet striking depiction of a chisel. The artwork, part of the Rijksmuseum collection, presents a realistic and detailed representation of the tool. Its octagonal wooden handle and flat, slightly curved blade are rendered with meticulous precision, highlighting the object's utilitarian purpose. This small-scale work exemplifies the detailed observation of everyday objects characteristic of Dutch still life painting, offering a glimpse into the world of craft and labor in the 16th century.

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rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

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Each ship was fitted with carpentry tools for making repairs. On Nova Zembla, these tools came in handy for building the ‘Safe House’. It is striking how little the tools have changed over the centuries; many of them can still be found in modern toolboxes.