Schreijerstoren te Amsterdam 17th century

Jan Abrahamsz. Beerstraten made this drawing of the Schreijerstoren in Amsterdam with graphite on paper in the 17th century. The use of graphite, a relatively soft and easily manipulated material, allows for the creation of fine lines and subtle tonal variations, bringing light and depth to the architectural forms and reflections in the water. The drawing shows the artist's skill in capturing architectural detail and the atmospheric effects of light and water. As a material, graphite allows the artist to easily rework and adjust the drawing, reflecting a process of careful observation and refinement. This contrasts with the labor involved in the building of the Schreijerstoren itself. In the context of 17th-century Amsterdam, a major center of trade and maritime power, the tower served as a key element in the city's defense and infrastructure. Looking at the drawing, consider the ways in which Beerstraten engages with both the artistic conventions of his time and the broader social and economic context of the Dutch Golden Age.