Omroeper 1776

Bernhard Schreuder's "Omroeper," a drawing from 1776, depicts a lively street scene. The central figure, a man with a large hat and a bottle in hand, stands prominently in the foreground. He is likely an "Omroeper," or town crier, a common figure in Dutch towns of the 18th century. Schreuder's detailed portrayal of the man's clothing, his hat, and the bottle he carries provides insight into the life of a common person in this period. The figure is contrasted by a fleeing figure in the background, adding a sense of movement and a narrative element to the scene. This work, part of the Rijksmuseum collection, is a captivating example of Schreuder's talent for capturing everyday life with great detail and nuance.