Tweemaster op zee c. 1825 - 1875

Petrus Johannes Schotel made this study of ships at sea with pencil and gray wash in the first half of the 19th century. We can see how the qualities of these materials influenced the appearance of the artwork. The pencil lines are light and delicate, capturing the intricate details of the ships' rigging and the gentle curve of the waves, while the gray wash adds depth and atmosphere to the scene, suggesting the vastness of the open water. It’s interesting to consider the process of maritime drawing. Schotel would have needed a keen eye and a steady hand to capture the movement of the ships and the sea. Perhaps he was on site, in a smaller vessel? In any case, the drawing reflects not only artistic skill but also a deep understanding of shipbuilding and seafaring. Considering the amount of work involved in the production process helps us understand the full meaning of the artwork and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.