Gezicht op de Amsterdamse Poort te Haarlem, 1739 1739

Hendrik Spilman created this print of the Amsterdamse Poort in Haarlem in 1739, capturing a moment in the visual culture of the Dutch Republic. It's a detailed etching, a medium that allowed for the widespread dissemination of images and ideas, reflecting the values and tastes of the Dutch middle class during the 18th century. The print offers us a glimpse into the spatial and social organization of the city. The Poort, or gate, was not just a physical barrier, but also a symbolic threshold, controlling movement, trade, and communication. Spilman's choice to depict it speaks to the gate's significance in defining the boundaries of Haarlem, both literally and figuratively. Consider how the artist situates the viewer. We're positioned outside the city, perhaps as travelers or observers, contemplating the transition from rural to urban life. What does it mean to be inside versus outside of this frame? It’s a question of belonging, of identity, that still resonates today.