Kermisprent van de gaslantaarnopstekers van Amsterdam voor het jaar 1847 1847

This broadside, created in 1847 by an anonymous artist, commemorates Amsterdam's gas lantern lighters. Its graphic structure immediately grabs our attention with a play between textual space and image. The print frames a picturesque scene of the city, complete with workers tending to the newly installed gas lanterns, flanked by ornate figures. Below, the title and a poem are meticulously laid out, evidence of the artisan's careful hand. The detailed line work offers a textured surface, while the monochromatic palette underscores the functional aesthetic of the piece. Semiotically, the gas lanterns symbolize modernity and progress, aligning with Amsterdam's ambitions at the time. The structure highlights the civic pride through its formal representation of public services and the active, contributing members of society. The intricate detailing within the image and typography suggests a convergence of art and utility, a common thread in early industrial-age prints. This broadside functions as both a piece of visual communication and a cultural artefact that reveals the societal values and technological advancements during its time.