Daken c. 1895 - 1896

Chris Huidekooper made this drawing of rooftops, titled ‘Daken’ in Dutch, sometime between the late 19th and early 20th century. The sketch offers a glimpse into the domestic architecture of the Netherlands during a period of rapid urbanization and social change. Huidekoper’s choice of subject matter reflects a broader cultural interest in the everyday lives of ordinary people. The rooftops, with their chimneys and varied textures, evoke a sense of community and shared experience. It invites us to consider the social fabric of Dutch society at the time. The drawing also invites questions about the role of art institutions in shaping our understanding of cultural heritage. What kinds of stories do museums and galleries tell about the past? How do they contribute to the construction of national identity? What sources might art historians use to find out more? Looking at census records, newspapers and maps could tell us much more about the social context of this image.