Spotprent over de wereldtentoonstelling te Wenen, 1873 1873

Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans created this print about the World Exhibition in Vienna, 1873. The late 19th century was a period of great industrial expansion, but also rising social tensions in Europe. Crans offers a satirical view of the exhibition; through his Dutch perspective we witness a critique of the cultural and political climate of the time. The print suggests a sense of exclusion; the Dutch felt they were not given enough space. The image shows various scenes: artists struggling, judges seated, and workers toiling. Each group represents a facet of the art world and its relationship to labor and judgment. Crans seems to question the value and accessibility of art itself, and who it serves. The phrase "Waarom wij geen plaats kunnen geven" translates to "Why can't we give space?" This query speaks to broader issues of cultural representation, national identity, and power dynamics. Through Crans’ critical eye, we can reflect on the emotional and political realities that shaped artistic expression in 1873.