Kerk van Someren 1738 - 1739

This image of the Kerk van Someren was rendered by Jan de Beijer using pen and brown ink, with a grey wash. De Beijer's artistic practice was rooted in the detailed observation and precise execution, very typical of topographical drawing of the 18th century. He would have started with a light sketch, gradually building up the image through layers of ink and wash. This methodical approach is reflective of the period’s emphasis on empirical knowledge and systematic documentation. We can almost imagine him, out in the fields with his tools, carefully documenting this scene. The materiality of the drawing itself - the fineness of the lines, the subtle gradations of tone - speaks to a culture of craftsmanship and skill. This work, however, is not just about technical proficiency. It’s a record of a place and time, and a testament to the value placed on accurate representation. This emphasis on material, making, and context encourages us to reconsider the boundaries of art history and to value the skilled labor involved in creating such artworks.