Allegorie op wolhandel in Leiden 1763

This etching by Abraham Delfos, titled “Allegorie op wolhandel in Leiden,” is a symbolic representation of the wool trade in Leiden, a flourishing industry in the 18th century. The central coat of arms, featuring crossed keys, likely symbolizes the city of Leiden or a guild involved in the wool trade. The surrounding figures and objects are carefully chosen to depict the various aspects of the industry: bales of wool, a ship, a merchant, and workers. The image is richly detailed and offers a glimpse into the economic life of 18th-century Leiden.