Gezicht op de Montelbaanstoren te Amsterdam 1870 - 1923

Willem Witsen made this drawing of the Montelbaanstoren in Amsterdam with pen in the late 19th or early 20th century. This sketch offers us a window into the cultural and social landscape of the Netherlands during a period of significant transformation. Consider how the Montelbaanstoren itself functions as a symbol. Originally built as a defense tower in the 16th century, by Witsen's time it would have already symbolized Amsterdam's rich maritime past. We can imagine it would have also stood as a reminder of the city's evolving identity during the Dutch Golden Age and beyond. Witsen, who came from an elite family, was deeply involved in artistic circles. His impressionistic style was considered progressive. So we might ask, why would such a modern artist choose such a historical subject? Was it nostalgia for a simpler time? As art historians, we can look at the cultural and institutional contexts that shaped Witsen's artistic choices. By analyzing the image in relation to the social and economic conditions of the time, we can gain a deeper understanding of its significance.