Gezicht op Maarseveen 1745 - 1794

This anonymous print offers us a glimpse into the social and economic landscape of Maarseveen. Views like these were popular during a period of economic expansion for the Netherlands, and this one pictures the leisure activities of the upper class, a world apart from the working class and enslaved people who made that wealth possible. The inclusion of small boats on the water, and figures strolling along the tree-lined canal, highlight the leisurely pursuits enjoyed by some. The artist remains unknown, yet their work opens a window onto a complex historical moment. What stories remain unseen? How do we grapple with the fact that beauty and privilege were often built on the backs of others? It calls on us to reflect on the multifaceted nature of history, and the stories we choose to tell.