Loterijtrekking aan de voet van de Leidse Burcht 1707

Jan Goeree made this print of the Lottery at the foot of Leiden Castle using etching around the turn of the 18th century. Lotteries like this one in the Dutch Republic were not just about the chance of winning; they were highly public events, shaped by and shaping social interactions. Goeree's depiction highlights this. The scene is lively, filled with figures from different social strata. The lottery itself is staged as a spectacle, turning the drawing of lots into public entertainment. This was a time when public institutions were becoming increasingly important in Dutch society, helping fund infrastructure and public works. The print then, reflects the era's blend of civic engagement and popular amusement. Historical archives, newspapers and municipal records can help us uncover more about the role of lotteries and their impact on Dutch society. Ultimately, this print reminds us that art always exists within a web of social relations and institutional practices.