De zeilwagen van Simon Stevin (middenplaat), 1602 1603

Editor: This is "The Sailing Chariot of Simon Stevin," made in 1603 by Willem van Swanenburg. It’s an engraving that shows a peculiar vehicle—a carriage fitted with sails—crossing what seems to be a beach. It's quite fascinating, like something from a fantastical tale. What stands out to you as you look at it? Curator: The image vibrates with ambition. Note how this sailing chariot, seemingly earthbound, dares to mimic the freedom of the ships behind it. It's an attempt to conquer distance, compressing time, heralded by the Latin inscription 'Mauritii Volantes Hollandica'--Mauritius flying on Dutch land. It speaks volumes about the burgeoning scientific optimism of the time. Editor: "Flying on Dutch land," I love that! It almost sounds like alchemy. Can you elaborate more on the symbolism you see in this early engraving? Curator: Absolutely. Think of the wheel, an ancient symbol of progress, now joined with the sail. Land and sea unite. Consider too the people on board. They are not just passengers, but witnesses to ingenuity. There’s a shared belief in technological advancement that this image captures. Notice how the composition is almost diagrammatic. Swanenburg emphasizes the *idea* of progress through geometric order. Does that visual structure say anything to you? Editor: Yes, the lines do bring the eye straight into the center of the carriage, leading upwards, to the flags at the top! It makes the chariot appear like it has come from somewhere and it’s going somewhere very important, making a powerful visual statement. Curator: Precisely! The "zeilwagen" becomes a symbol of forward movement, of the possibility inherent in innovation. It's about believing that we can, quite literally, sail across land. I would ask you now: In what way can cultural memory be shaped by technical advances? Editor: I learned that an image of technology can stand for broader cultural progress! It reminds me that technological innovation can transform and reshape culture and collective dreams.