Seehafen, vorne eine Gondel 

Abraham Storck the Elder made this pen and gray ink drawing, "Seehafen, vorne eine Gondel," capturing a bustling harbor scene. Storck, situated in the vibrant and prosperous Dutch Golden Age, was part of a society deeply engaged in maritime trade and exploration. This drawing presents a society keenly aware of its global reach and economic power. Look at the gondola in the foreground, filled with what appear to be affluent passengers; it offers a glimpse into the lives of those who benefited directly from the era's maritime activities. The grandeur of the architecture, combined with the active harbor, speaks volumes about the era's values of commerce and status. However, this image also prompts us to consider the labor and the lives of those who remained invisible in such representations. "Seehafen, vorne eine Gondel" invites a deeper reflection on the complexities of power, privilege, and the human cost of the Dutch Golden Age. It gently reminds us to question what is shown, and perhaps more importantly, what is intentionally left out of the picture.