Voertuigen 1873

De Ruyter & Meijer’s print, titled ‘Voertuigen,’ pictures a series of horse-drawn vehicles, offering a glimpse into the transportation methods of its time. The print not only showcases the vehicles, but it subtly highlights the social strata of the era. There are carriages for the upper class, as well as various wagons used for transporting goods, each serving a distinct purpose within the societal structure. Notice how the horses were essential in connecting people and commerce. The animals that pull these carts, the drivers of the carriages, and the individuals who load and unload goods all play their part. Consider the labor and reliance on both human and animal power, reflecting the economic and social dynamics of the period. Ultimately, ‘Voertuigen’ invites reflection on the intersections of progress, labor, and social class.