Technique and Technology of Creating Wooden Panels in the 17th Century in the Netherlands The use of ancient carpentry techniques to make a panel painting for a technological copy (original) (raw)

2023, Technique and Technology of Creating Wooden Panels in the 17th Century in the Netherlands The use of ancient carpentry techniques to make a panel painting for a technological copy

A 17th-century panel painting is a complex work consisting of many layers, each of which affects its durability and reaction to climatic conditions. This paper focuses on the technology and technique of creating wooden panels in the Netherlands in the 17th century. During this period, wood, especially oak, played a key role in the production of panels, frames, and stretchers. The analysis of the production history of panels reveals changes in the dominant painting medium - from wood to canvas. Despite the popularity of canvas, wooden panels were still common, especially in still-life paintings. Craftsmen specializing in the production of panels collaborated with artists to create high-quality bases for paintings. Craft guilds controlled production, introducing regulations aimed at maintaining high standards. Oak, as the dominant raw material, was subjected to a process of felling, sawing, and seasoning. The import of oak wood, especially from Gdańsk, played a key role in the production of panels. The characteristic properties of oak wood, such as annual rings, affected its durability and stability. The seasoning process was crucial for maintaining the wood's properties, eliminating excess moisture, and increasing its durability. This work analyzes the complexity of the process of creating wooden panels in the 17th century, bringing closer the relationship between artists and craftsmen, as well as the impact of the type of wood and technological processes on the final product.