Lijst van topografische tekeningen 1717 - 1748

This list of topographical drawings was made by Abraham de Haen the Second, likely using ink on paper. The material itself is simple, but it speaks volumes about the context in which this kind of image was made. Paper was becoming more and more available at this time, feeding a growing demand for information about the world. The quick, consistent mark-making enabled by the pen allowed for the efficient production of visual records. Consider the labor involved: from the making of the paper, to the formulation of the ink, to the skilled hand required for elegant script. This all adds up to a precious commodity, produced for a market eager to consume knowledge. So, while this page may seem humble, it's also a document of a culture in transition, where seeing and recording became ever more important. It is important to recognize the social and economic implications of the materials and processes used.