Servet met vissen en schaaldieren, naweving van een 17de-eeuws Haarlems voorbeeld c. 1950 - 1960

This is a woven linen cloth, measuring 63 by 63 centimeters, made by Elias Linnenfabrieken as a reproduction of a 17th-century Haarlem design. These cloths were not merely functional; they reflected the cultural and economic vibrancy of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when maritime trade and fishing were central to the Dutch identity. The images of fish and sea creatures symbolize abundance, prosperity, and the nation’s deep connection to the sea. The presence of ships points to the risks taken by fishermen. These voyages were fraught with danger, impacting their lives and those of their families. So, while the cloth might appear decorative, it also serves as a potent reminder of the human cost of industry and progress.