All About The Passage Boat by Aelbert Cuyp

Title of Artwork: “The Passage Boat”

Artwork by Aelbert Cuyp

Year Created 1650

Summary of The Passage Boat

Step back in time and experience the charm of a bygone era with the ‘passage boat’ – an enchanting term for a ferry. This particular vessel is believed to be the trusted mode of transportation for commuters between Dordrecht and Rotterdam, a vital component of the extensive network of waterborne public transit that defined the Dutch way of life during the 17th century. 

All About The Passage Boat

Introducing the magnificent vessel, a pleyt – a stunning single-mast, sprit-rigged, shallow draught, broad-hulled tub that bears a striking resemblance to a smalschip. This exceptional vessel has been specifically designed to transport a vast number of passengers at a leisurely pace through tranquil inland waters. Behold the stunning pair of pleyten! These masterpieces are crafted to give the illusion of sequential glimpses of a single vessel. Witness how the sail gracefully descends as the boat elegantly glides towards the jetty. 

Experience the grand entrance of the service as the rhythmic beat of a skilled drummer fills the air. Witness a man expertly warding off any unwanted intruders with a sturdy bargepole. Behold a stunningly grandiose depiction of a boat, yet the vessel and its operation are devoid of any noteworthy characteristics. On board the vessel, one can spot a few burghers and a rowing-boat, however, there seems to be no prominent figure present. The background is filled with numerous ships, yet there is no indication that this is a Dutch fleet review. Witnessing this is a routine affair.

The presentation’s drama is not solely reliant on the ferry’s isolation and size. Experience the breathtaking water-skimming viewpoint as the hull boldly stands out against the glowing horizon, illuminated by the setting sun’s reflection on the misty sea. The towering mast reaches towards the clouds, adding to the awe-inspiring scene. Experience the ethereal beauty of the clouds, reminiscent of the iconic shapes in Rembrandt’s Three Trees (British Museum). 

Behold the graceful forms of angels or zephyrs, delicately encircling the radiant light of the sky. Experience the beauty of the clouds as they glide effortlessly through the sky. Take note of how their movements and forms are interconnected, for it is the artist’s keen eye that perceives the true essence of things, while the untrained eye sees only distorted shapes. As Hoogstraten wisely suggests, observation is key to unlocking the secrets of the natural world.

Experience the familiarity of ‘peopled clouds’ through allegorical prints such as the Dutch ‘ship of state’ from 1620. This print commemorates the Synod of Dordrecht (1618-9) and features the Stadholder, Prince Maurice of Orange, at the helm, encircled by the Seven Provinces, illuminated by a celestial figure of Truth holding the States Bible. 

Meanwhile, the Pope meets his demise in the depths below. While the Passage Boat may seem like an ordinary vessel, it possesses the same visionary enthusiasm as a grand ‘ship of state’. Experience a personal allegory of salvation that only a spiritual person can truly appreciate, woven into the very fabric of the world. The striking cross formed by the mast and sprit-pole of this boat is sure to catch the eye of any modern observer.