Kaart van Schouwen-Duiveland 1753 - 1760

This undated map of Schouwen-Duiveland is printed in ink on paper, a relatively inexpensive medium, which allowed for widespread distribution. The work's appearance is deeply influenced by its material. The ink creates sharp, definitive lines, which precisely outline geographical features. These qualities are essential for a map, where accuracy is paramount. The printing process also imbues the artwork with social significance. Maps like these weren’t just about geography. They were tools of power, allowing for territorial claims and resource management. This map, therefore, is not merely a document but a testament to human agency and a symbol of economic and political control. Understanding this requires looking beyond the image itself, and considering the social context and the labor involved in its production. It reminds us that even seemingly straightforward representations of the world are shaped by human intention and power dynamics.