Plate 9 depicting the trades of Rome, here including vendors of water, sardines, melons etc, from the 'Descrición de las artes que se llaman para los calles de la ciudad de Roma' 1765 - 1805

This print, created by Remondini between 1650 and 1860, presents a glimpse into the vibrant street life and commerce of Rome through depictions of vendors selling various goods. The vendors of water, sardines, and melons remind us of the significance of the informal economy and labor of everyday people in shaping the city's cultural identity. These figures are not mere tradespeople; they embody the spirit of resourcefulness, adaptability, and resilience that characterized much of the working class. The artist captures the essence of a bustling urban environment where the exchange of goods is also an exchange of cultures. Each vendor represents a story of labor, survival, and the complex interplay between personal narratives and larger social structures. The artwork challenges the traditional focus on elite culture, emphasizing the significance of the laboring classes in shaping Rome's economy and society. It evokes a sense of both admiration for the vendors' industriousness and empathy for their daily struggles.