Vervallen boerenhoeve 1626 - 1677

Thomas Wijck made this drawing of a dilapidated farmhouse with pen in grey-brown ink, with grey wash. Looking closely, you can see how Wijck’s choice of materials influences the artwork’s atmosphere. The ink and wash, applied with a fine pen, render the scene with delicate precision. The grey-brown ink evokes the weathered appearance of the farmhouse, highlighting the textures of decaying wood, crumbling plaster, and sagging thatch. The grey wash adds depth and shadow, accentuating the effects of time and neglect on the building. Wijck's drawing captures not just the physical appearance of the farmhouse but also the social context in which it exists. The dilapidated state of the building suggests a story of economic hardship, possibly reflecting broader issues of rural poverty and decline during the 17th century. It invites us to consider the labor, skill, and materials that went into constructing the farmhouse and to reflect on the changing fortunes of those who once called it home. By focusing on materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the full meaning of Wijck's drawing, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.