Gezicht in Haarlem c. 1860 - 1866

Cornelis Springer made this pencil drawing, titled "Gezicht in Haarlem," offering us a glimpse into a specific place and time. Springer, living in the 19th century, operated within a society undergoing rapid change and the rise of national identities. The artwork depicts a modest, perhaps even overlooked, corner of Haarlem. Its rough, unfinished quality gives the impression of a quick sketch. It is as though Springer captures the fleeting moments of everyday life. How does the artist choose to represent this commonplace scene? Rather than depicting grand architecture or the bustling marketplace, the artist focuses on the quiet intimacy of a residential area. Perhaps, Springer is making a statement about the value and beauty found in the ordinary. Through his careful attention, he elevates the mundane into something worthy of contemplation. His Gezicht in Haarlem offers a chance to reflect on our own relationship with the places we inhabit, and to find beauty in the everyday.