Havana 1839

Abraham Lion Zeelander made this print of Havana sometime in the first half of the 19th century. The image presents a bustling port city in Cuba, with ships sailing in and out, all under the watchful eye of the Morro Castle fortress. In the 19th century, Havana was a crucial hub for trade and shipping in the Caribbean, mainly for sugar production. Zeelander, an artist working in the Netherlands, likely created this image for a Dutch audience interested in the economic opportunities and colonial activities in the Americas. The Dutch had a significant presence in the Caribbean and were keen on documenting and celebrating their maritime power. The image subtly promotes the idea of colonial enterprise, depicting a well-organized and prosperous city under European influence. Understanding this print requires us to consider the broader context of Dutch colonial history and economic interests. Examining archival sources, trade records, and travel accounts from the period can provide deeper insights into the social and institutional forces that shaped Zeelander's work and its reception.