Onderboezem in Paleis Noordeinde 1664

Jan Matthysz. created this print titled ‘Onderboezem in Paleis Noordeinde,’ depicting a chimney in Paleis Noordeinde. Consider this image as a remnant of a time of shifting cultural landscapes. It offers a glimpse into the lives of the Dutch elite, reflected in the grandeur of their surroundings. The ornate details of the chimney, adorned with garlands, evoke a sense of status and belonging. Yet, the stark contrast between light and shadow within the chimney hints at the hidden dynamics of power and privilege. In a space where warmth and comfort were curated, whose labor ensured the palace’s smooth functioning, and whose stories were erased from the official narrative? While the architecture speaks of wealth, the absence of human presence invites us to reflect on the many silent contributors to this tableau of luxury.