Figuren in zeventiende-eeuwse kleding en een hond c. 1846 - 1882

This watercolor and pencil sketch of figures in seventeenth-century clothing was created by Cornelis Springer. The artist's choice of materials influences the artwork's appearance, with the fluidity of watercolor and the precision of pencil allowing for a delicate and detailed portrayal of the figures' attire and features. Springer's meticulous rendering of clothing, likely made from wool, cotton and leather, evokes a sense of the textures of their garments. The social context of the time is also apparent in the artwork. The clothing suggests a society with distinct social classes, with the figures' attire indicative of their status and profession. By focusing on the relationship between the artwork and the modes of production, we can better understand the social and cultural significance of the clothing and how it was made. By emphasizing materials, making, and context in understanding the artwork's full meaning, we can challenge the distinctions between fine art and craft, and gain a deeper appreciation for the artist's work.