Rieten strandstoelen op het strand te Scheveningen c. 1870 - 1885

Carl Philip Wollrabe made this photograph of beach chairs in Scheveningen. The image captures a scene dominated by rows upon rows of "Rieten strandstoelen," or wicker beach chairs, a familiar sight in the Dutch seaside resort. These chairs are more than just functional objects; they are cultural artifacts deeply intertwined with leisure and tourism. The chairs are made from wicker, a material derived from readily available natural resources. It reflects the craft traditions and industries that flourished in coastal communities. Wickerwork involves skilled labor, with artisans meticulously weaving pliable plant fibers into sturdy, comfortable seating. The chairs offer a sense of privacy and protection from the elements, and speak to a culture that values relaxation and recreation by the sea. In this photograph, the beach chairs are arranged in neat rows, suggesting an organized, commercialized experience. The sheer number of chairs hints at the scale of tourism and the economic activities supporting it. Consider how the artistry of the craft contributes to the overall experience of leisure, transforming a simple seat into an icon of seaside culture.