Het huis Killestein bij Lexmonde 1733 - 1784

Hendrik Spilman created this monochrome drawing of 'Het huis Killestein bij Lexmonde' with pen in gray ink and brush in gray wash. Spilman lived in an era deeply shaped by social hierarchies and economic disparities, a context vividly reflected in his work. Here, the meticulous depiction of the Killestein house amidst a serene landscape invites us to consider the lives of the privileged class. The figure on the left who appears to be aiming a rifle brings class and gender into focus. Is he a landowner, asserting dominance over the land? Spilman's choice of monochrome underscores the contrast between the opulence of the estate and the muted existence of those excluded from it. The emotional depth of the artwork lies in its subtle commentary on power, wealth, and the human experience within a stratified society. Spilman presents us with a snapshot of his time, inviting reflection on the complexities of identity and history.