Maritime · 19th century
€ 220
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition with some age-related wear. There are visible age spots and slight discoloration, particularly around the margins. Despite this, the hand-colored areas remain vivid, and paper is intact.
Description of the Print
This print, titled "Een Pont-Veer" (A Ferry Crossing), depicts a serene and picturesque scene of boats and ships on calm waters, likely at a ferry crossing point. The composition features several vessels with sails catching a gentle breeze, with one boat in the foreground loaded with passengers and goods, perhaps waiting to disembark. The water reflects the soft colors of the sky and the sails, creating a tranquil atmosphere. In the background, a few buildings or structures, possibly a church or a manor, can be seen amidst lush greenery, adding to the idyllic setting. The scene captures a moment of peaceful daily life on the water, typical of many European river or coastal towns.
Artist:
- G.L.W. Dreibusholz: The artist responsible for the original drawing or painting. Dreibusholz was known for his landscapes and maritime scenes, capturing the gentle beauty and rhythm of everyday life along the waterways.
Publisher:
- Soetens & Fils: The publisher of this print, a prominent lithography firm known for producing high-quality prints in the 19th century.
Lithographer:
- **Lith. van H.J. Backer**: The lithographer who translated Dreibusholz's peaceful maritime scene into a lithograph, preserving the delicate interplay of light and color that defines the work.
Date of Publication:
- 1835: The print was produced in 1835, during a period when lithography was a popular method for creating detailed and accessible artworks for a broad audience.
What Makes This Print Interesting:
This print stands out for its calm and picturesque depiction of a ferry crossing, capturing the gentle pace of life on the water. The artist’s skill in portraying the subtle variations in light and reflection on the water’s surface contributes to the scene's tranquil ambiance. The detailed rendering of the boats, the passengers, and the distant landscape invites the viewer to imagine the lives of those depicted and the quiet beauty of a day spent by the river. The combination of serene natural elements and human activity in this print offers a soothing and contemplative view of 19th-century maritime life.
Condition:
The print is in fair to good condition, with some minor age-related wear, including slight discoloration and spotting around the edges. The hand-colored elements remain well-preserved, with the soft tones and delicate details of the scene clearly visible. The paper is intact, with no significant tears or creases, allowing the peaceful scene to be appreciated fully. The overall quality of the print continues to convey the serene beauty of the ferry crossing and its surroundings.
