Watermill near Maastricht 1670

Valentijn Klotz created this drawing titled "Watermill near Maastricht" in pen and brown ink, likely in the late 17th or early 18th century. It’s interesting to consider the role of watermills in Dutch society at this time. They weren't just picturesque features of the landscape, but vital pieces of infrastructure for grinding grain and powering industry. Klotz's choice to depict this scene suggests an interest in the working life of the Netherlands, and the integration of technology within the natural world. The image creates meaning through its emphasis on the textures of stone, water and foliage, a deliberate move by Klotz away from the idealized landscapes favored by other artists. Archival records, such as estate documents and tax inventories, can help us understand the watermill as a symbol of economic productivity and local administration. Ultimately, this drawing reflects a time when art began to turn its attention to the everyday, and to capture the essence of place with increasing accuracy.