Spiegel van een aak De Drie Gebroeders 1820 - 1872

Hendrik Abraham Klinkhamer made this study of a boat’s stern in the 19th century using graphite and watercolor on paper. It’s fascinating to consider these materials, so closely associated with fine art, brought to bear on a decidedly un-monumental subject. This is not a grand navy vessel, but rather a humble ‘aak,’ a type of barge common in the Netherlands. Klinkhamer’s careful rendering gives dignity to this working boat. You can almost feel the individual planks of wood, the curve of the hull, and the way the light catches the lettering of its name: ‘De Drie Gebroeders,’ or ‘The Three Brothers.’ Think of the labor involved, not only in the boat’s construction, but also in its daily use. Klinkhamer’s study reminds us that even the most ordinary objects are the product of countless human hands, and that the tools and skills to craft these objects have their own value and artistry.