Kermisprent van de Amsterdamse nachtwacht voor het jaar 1861 1861

Christiaan Le Blansch created this print in 1861. It commemorates the opening of the Paleis voor Volksvlijt, or Palace of Industry, in Amsterdam. The Palace was intended to showcase Dutch industrial achievements and foster national pride. Yet, beyond its celebration of progress, the print reflects the complex societal layers of the Netherlands during this period. The ornate decorations and the grand architecture of the Palace contrast with the reality of daily life for many Dutch citizens who lived in poverty. This piece prompts us to reflect on how public works can serve as stages for national identity, sometimes overshadowing the diverse experiences and socio-economic realities of the individuals within that nation. The emotional weight of such spectacles lies in their ability to both unite and exclude.