Twee dorpsgezichten te Kapelle 1786 - 1792

Carel Frederik Bendorp created these two village scenes of Kapelle using etching. The print provides a window into 18th-century Dutch rural life, reflecting the era's emphasis on community and local identity. What strikes me is how Bendorp situates us within the town itself. The buildings, with their step-gabled facades, loom large, while the figures are smaller, rendered with simple lines. The scenes offer glimpses into daily life: figures chat, and one pushes a wheelbarrow. These are working towns, where life is very public. Consider the social context of the time. The Netherlands was a society defined by distinct class structures. The working class, as depicted here, played a crucial role in the economic vitality of these towns. These scenes offer a rare look into the lives of those who may otherwise be overlooked in historical narratives. In focusing on these small towns, Bendorp captures a sense of pride and belonging, highlighting the unique character and identity of Dutch village life.