Zesde slede 1776

This etching of ‘Sixth Sledge’ was created by Nicolaas van der Worm in the late 18th century. Sledges like this one were not merely modes of transport but elaborately decorated displays of wealth. This image offers a fascinating insight into the social spectacle of winter in the Netherlands. It depicts an ornately decorated sledge, drawn by a horse adorned with elaborate ornamentation. The attention to detail, from the livery of the attendants to the sculptural embellishments on the sledge, speaks to a culture deeply invested in outward displays of status and civic pride. The banner on the sledge indicates the coat of arms of a specific family or guild, underlining the importance of lineage and social standing in Dutch society. To fully understand this print, we can turn to period documents, guild records, and genealogical research. It’s only by understanding the social conditions of artistic production that we can truly appreciate its significance.