Aantekening betreffende de schilderijenverzameling van Willem Lormier 1751

This handwritten catalogue, titled 'Aantekening betreffende de schilderijenverzameling van Willem Lormier', dates back to December 1751. While the artist remains anonymous, its purpose speaks volumes about the cultural values of its time. Reflect on the act of cataloging itself. It implies not only wealth but also a particular way of seeing the world, one that values organization, classification, and possession. In the 18th century, art collecting was often tied to social status and political power. Who was included, and perhaps more importantly, who was excluded from this world? Imagine yourself leafing through this catalogue, a window into a bygone era. Consider the stories and identities of both the artist and the collector. What can this seemingly simple document tell us about the intersection of art, commerce, and identity in 18th-century society?