Albumblad met diverse voorstellingen 1814 - 1869

Alexander Cranendoncq created this album page of various scenes in the Netherlands during the first half of the 19th century. These diverse images offer a glimpse into the social and cultural life of the time. The album's collection of images creates meaning through a variety of visual codes, from scenes of domestic life to public events, each reflecting aspects of Dutch society. Notice how some scenes depict moments of drama, such as a fire, while others capture everyday activities. Cranendoncq's choices reflect the social structures of his time, with some images reflecting the power of the state while others celebrate Dutch commerce and maritime power. Understanding the role of the historian helps us appreciate the album's rich social and institutional context. By consulting period sources such as newspapers and journals, we gain a deeper appreciation of the album as a product of its time.