Nieuwjaarswens van de Amsterdamse waldiepers voor het jaar 1857 1856 - 1857

Editor: Here we have "Nieuwjaarswens van de Amsterdamse waldiepers voor het jaar 1857," created around 1856-1857 by Jacob Coldewijn. It’s a woodcut print. It depicts this charming, wintry Amsterdam cityscape with these figures poling along the canal. It feels both detailed and quite simple. What captures your attention in this piece? Curator: Oh, what *doesn’t* capture my attention! There’s such a fascinating tension at play here. See how the everyday activity is juxtaposed with the elaborate lettering, which almost feels ceremonial. Notice too, how Coldewijn uses light and shadow - stark blacks and whites - to create depth and movement. What do you make of that contrast? It’s like high art is about to fall into the canal, in a New Years poem! Editor: It gives it an unexpected, playful feeling, like it doesn't take itself too seriously despite the formality. Also I notice the poem in the lower portion. Curator: Precisely. It elevates what might have been considered a common genre scene to something worthy of preservation and contemplation. This would have been a promotional work, intended for distribution among potential clients, like we give away calendars today, though so much nicer to look at than an outlook calendar, maybe. This really showcases the innovative approach to promotional advertising in the 19th century. Think of it! Art as advertisement! Editor: So, it’s not just art for art’s sake but something with a specific, practical function. I wouldn't think to look that deeply but it truly feels different after examining these subtleties. Curator: Exactly! The 'Nieuwjaarswens', or New Year's wish, as you said, bridges the gap between commerce, art, and cultural tradition, if somewhat cheekily! It provides us such a beautiful slice-of-life, no?