Abraham en de zadelmaker in de winkel 1781

This print was made by Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki, a Berlin artist, in the late eighteenth century. It shows two men in a saddlemaker's shop, surrounded by harnesses. The print's inscription translates to: "Look, sir, there they all hang, the masters, great and small." This image provides a glimpse into the social fabric of the time. Chodowiecki was known for his detailed depictions of everyday life in Germany, and his work offers valuable insights into the social hierarchy. Consider, for instance, the clothing of the two men: the saddlemaker appears more ostentatious than his visitor. The German states at this time were highly stratified. Through this image, Chodowiecki subtly critiques the social structures of his time, using humor to expose the pretensions of status. To fully understand this print, it's essential to delve into the history of 18th-century German society and the role of artisans. A deeper look into period sources reveals much about the complex social dynamics reflected in this seemingly simple scene.