Gezichten op Bergen, Egmond aan den Hoef, Heiloo en Limmen 1732

Abraham Zeeman created this print, "Gezichten op Bergen, Egmond aan den Hoef, Heiloo en Limmen", sometime in the first half of the 18th century. These “views” offer us a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the Dutch countryside. Zeeman, as his name suggests, was known for his marine scenes, but here he turns his attention inland. Look closely, and you'll notice that each view includes both existing structures and ruins. This contrast speaks to a time of change, reflecting on the past while looking towards the future. The inclusion of local people gives us a sense of everyday life. But who are these people? Are they the landowners, the clergy, or the common laborers? The print invites us to consider the social hierarchy of the time and how it was reflected in the landscape itself. It asks us to consider how we construct our sense of place, both individually and collectively, through memory, loss, and the stories we tell ourselves about who we are.