Boten met haringvissers op zee 1842

Michel Mourot made this print of herring fishing boats at sea using etching and possibly other techniques. While undated, it probably reflects Mourot's time in the Netherlands during the early 19th century. The image is a glimpse into the economic and social life of the Netherlands, where herring fishing was a major industry and cultural touchstone. The scale and detail suggest that this was a print intended for wide distribution, possibly to celebrate or promote the fishing industry. The print’s attention to the lives of working people also reflects the democratizing trends in the art world. The art market was growing, with new institutions and exhibiting societies. Artists could now produce works, such as prints, with the intention of distribution to a wider audience. By examining the print alongside archival material related to the fishing industry and exhibition records from the period, we can learn more about the social and economic context that shaped its production and reception.