Straatgezicht 1819 - 1861

Joannes van Liefland created this etching, titled 'Street View,' in the 19th century. At the time, Dutch cities were undergoing significant transformations, grappling with industrialization and urbanization, which threatened traditional ways of life. In the image, the architecture speaks to a pre-industrial era, but we also notice figures who seem to be a family. In the 19th century, family dynamics were deeply shaped by social class. For the working class, women often worked alongside men, and children also contributed to the household income. Here, the figures seem to be middle class based on their attire. Perhaps van Liefland is making a statement about class and gender by showing women not working. This etching invites us to reflect on the values and changes of 19th-century Dutch society. It shows us how people navigate the complexities of their time, holding onto the past while stepping tentatively into the future.