Gezicht op de Catharijnepoort te Utrecht 1773 - 1792

Hendrik Spilman created this print of the Catharijnepoort in Utrecht in the 18th century, using etching techniques to depict a bustling scene of daily life against the backdrop of the city's imposing gate. At the time, the Dutch Republic was a major center of trade and culture, yet sharp class divisions shaped everyday experiences. Notice how the gate itself—ostensibly a structure for defense and control—also functions as a site of commerce and social interaction. The figures populating Spilman's image offer a glimpse into the diverse social strata coexisting within the city. Spilman's choice to focus on this particular gate speaks to its significance as a point of entry and exit, embodying both the promise of opportunity and the regulation of movement. Consider how the architecture and infrastructure of a city, like the Catharijnepoort, played a role in shaping the identities and experiences of its inhabitants. This print serves as a reminder of the intimate relationship between people, place, and power.