Plattegrond van de begane grond van het Trippenhuis en de tuinen te Amsterdam 1664

This is Johannes Vinckboons’ architectural drawing showing the layout of the Trippenhuis’ ground floor and gardens in Amsterdam. Though undated, the drawing provides insight into the domestic life of Amsterdam’s elite during the Dutch Golden Age. At its core, this drawing visualizes power dynamics within the household. Spaces are meticulously planned and labeled, revealing a strict hierarchy. Formal gardens contrast with functional spaces like kitchens and storerooms, hinting at the labor required to maintain such a grand residence. Notice the ‘Kinder Kamer’, or children's room, placed near the kitchen, which reflects the period's child-rearing practices and gendered roles. Consider how the layout dictates movement and interaction. The drawing offers us a glimpse into a world of social rituals and private lives, a world of merchants and trade set against the backdrop of the Dutch empire. The drawing isn’t just a floor plan; it's a map of social relations, reflecting the values and structure of 17th-century Dutch society.