Ontwerp voor het koepeldak van het schip 'Grotius' c. 1906

Carel Adolph Lion Cachet created this pencil drawing, titled 'Design for the dome roof of the ship Grotius', at an unknown date. Cachet was a Dutch artist known for his maritime and decorative designs, and his work often reflects the cultural and national pride of the Netherlands. This design provides insight into the world of Dutch shipbuilding and its cultural significance at the time. Constructed to sail to the Dutch East Indies, the 'Grotius' would have been a tangible symbol of Dutch economic power, colonial reach, and technological advancement. The drawing uses visual codes that highlight the ship's interior architecture, emphasizing functionality as well as aesthetic considerations. To truly appreciate this drawing, we delve into maritime history, examining archival documents, ship plans, and period accounts to understand the societal role these vessels played. The design underscores how art is embedded in broader historical narratives.