Science & Education
€ 150
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
fine color and detail, minimal signs of age Printed title below image: Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater.
Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater – Dutch Engineer and Millwright, 19th-Century Lithograph
Item Description:
This 19th-century hand-colored lithograph portrays Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater, one of the most important hydraulic engineers of the Dutch Golden Age. Born in 1575 in De Rijp, Leeghwater was a millwright, clockmaker, and visionary engineer who played a major role in the land reclamation projects that helped shape the modern Netherlands. He was instrumental in the draining of the Beemster, Schermer, and Purmer lakes using wind-powered technologies.
The print depicts Leeghwater seated on a haystack in a rural landscape, with a windmill in the background and laborers at work behind him. He holds a compass and notebook, emphasizing his technical knowledge and engineering skills. His direct gaze and thoughtful expression convey his role as both planner and hands-on innovator. The scene combines historical realism with national pride in Dutch ingenuity.
Drawn by Herman ten Kate and printed by P W van de Weijer in Utrecht, this lithograph features fine line work, warm hand-applied color, and a rich sense of atmosphere. It is a compelling tribute to Dutch water management heritage.
Details:
Subject: Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater, Dutch hydraulic engineer and inventor
Date: Circa 1850
Technique: Hand-colored lithograph
Artist: Herman ten Kate
Printer: P W van de Weijer, Utrecht
Condition: Good; fine color and detail, minimal signs of age
Printed title below image: Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater
Framing Suggestion:
This piece works beautifully in a natural wood or dark oak frame with archival matting and UV-protective glass. A soft earth-toned mat would enhance the rural setting and historical tone.
Shipping:
Professionally packed and shipped worldwide from our gallery in the Netherlands.
Keywords:
Dutch engineer print, antique water management art, Jan Adriaensz Leeghwater portrait, Dutch Golden Age invention, land reclamation history, hand-colored lithograph, Herman ten Kate print, 19th-century Dutch lithograph, windmill art print, Utrecht lithographer, technical heritage decor, Beemster polder history, antique hydraulic engineering, Dutch innovation art
