Who painted The Ferry to Leiden?

The Ferry to Leiden was painted by Unknown in 1756.

Where can I see The Ferry to Leiden?

The Ferry to Leiden is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

The Ferry to Leiden

The Ferry to Leiden is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1756 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1756 by the artist identified as 30498_person, this image depicts a bustling river scene centered on a large ferry crowded with passengers. Smaller vessels flank the ferry, each carrying fewer people, while windmills punctuate the flat horizon behind a calm water surface. The work is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography.

Subject & Meaning

The composition records everyday transport along a Dutch waterway, emphasizing communal travel and the interaction between larger ferries and modest boats. The presence of windmills and the expansive, level landscape situates the scene within a typical low‑country environment, highlighting the reliance on waterways for movement and commerce.

Technique & Style

Rendered in monochrome, the artist employs shading to convey depth, separating figures and vessels from the surrounding land. Loose sails on the ferry suggest a gentle pace, while contrasts of light and dark create a subtle sense of volume without relying on color, reflecting a restrained, observational approach.

History & Provenance

The image has been housed in the Museum of Ethnography since its acquisition, though details of its earlier ownership remain undocumented. Its dating to the mid‑18th century aligns it with a period of increased interest in documenting everyday life through visual means.