Titelblad til "Mariner" (Stroom en Zee gezichten) 1701

This title page was made around 1701 in Amsterdam by Ludolf Bakhuizen, using ink on paper. The most obvious thing about this work is the artist’s technical mastery. Look at the calligraphic lines. The artist used the pen and ink to create a range of marks, from thin, controlled lines to bold, sweeping curves. The precision of the lettering speaks to the artist’s skill, but also to the importance of handwriting as a form of communication and artistry during this period. This was a time when the Dutch Republic was a major maritime power, with a vast global trade network. The artist’s subject matter focuses on the sea, and the title page suggests a connection to maritime themes. It also reflects the Dutch Republic’s economic success, with its emphasis on commerce, craftsmanship, and artistic expression. This artwork shows us that these are all interconnected, and that the materials and techniques used to create an artwork can tell us a lot about the world in which it was made.