Ambachten en beroepen 1822 - 1849

Editor: This print, “Ambachten en beroepen” or “Trades and Professions” by Alexander Cranendoncq, made sometime between 1822 and 1849, is like a snapshot of daily life. It's neatly divided into little scenes. But they are kind of faded, what do you think these vignettes say about work and life in that era? Curator: Oh, darling, isn’t it fascinating? To me, each little rectangle sings a song. Can you almost hear the cooper hammering, feel the texture of the straw-maker's materials? It whispers of a time when identity was so interwoven with one’s craft; there's such pride imbued into each miniature drama. They’re so quaint and idealized, though, don’t you think? I suspect the reality was somewhat grittier than this genteel portrayal. Editor: GENTLE? Ha! So these aren't exactly "slices of life" then, more like…aspirations? Curator: Exactly! Or, at the very least, extremely selective glimpses. The garret where the cloth-beaters toil… that seems arduous indeed! Note how there is text directly below each illustration? It reminds me a little of those instructional posters from the era, didactic in purpose, you know? Almost like saying, “Here’s how society functions, each with its assigned, worthy role.” Isn't that naive... Editor: Yeah, makes sense...seeing all these mini scenes, it all seems so planned. Curator: And yet, within that planning is a world. I see diligence, resilience and…a quiet dignity, perhaps? A celebration of what people DO! Something quite beautiful in that, I think.