Driemaster c. 1649 - 1656

Caspar van den Bos created this image of a "Driemaster" – a three-masted ship – using pen on paper in the 17th century. It may appear to be a simple sketch, yet it shows the intricate details of the ship, from the ropes and sails to the planks that form its hull. Van den Bos’s careful strokes suggest a deep understanding of shipbuilding and maritime culture. The technique, pen on paper, is in itself unassuming, but it speaks to the widespread importance of drawing as a means of documenting and disseminating knowledge. Consider the broader context: the 17th century was a time of intense maritime exploration and trade. Ships like these were essential for transporting goods and people across vast distances. This drawing is not just a picture of a ship; it's a snapshot of a world being reshaped by global commerce. Looking closely at the materials and the artist's meticulous technique allows us to appreciate the connections between art, labor, and the social forces that shaped the world we know today.