Nieuwjaarswens van de lantaarnopsteker van Amsterdam 1838 - 1914

This broadside print titled *Nieuwjaarswens van de lantaarnopsteker van Amsterdam* or *New Year's Greetings from the Amsterdam Lamplighter* was created by Hendrik Frederik Koen in the late 19th century. At the time, lamplighters were a vital part of Amsterdam's urban infrastructure, ensuring safety and extending the day into the night. Through text and image, this piece provides a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people, specifically those living and working in Amsterdam. The poem speaks of both joy and sorrow, of births and deaths, reflecting the full spectrum of human experience. It also touches on social issues, hinting at the struggles of daily life and the desire for peace and prosperity. This print evokes a sense of community. The lamplighter, a symbol of illumination and guidance, extends New Year's greetings to the city’s residents, wishing them health, happiness, and success in their work, as well as encouraging civic harmony in a rapidly changing world.