Kanalen ved Kalveboderne i København 1755

Johan Jacob Bruun made this print of The Canals at Kalveboderne in Copenhagen in 1758. It offers a glimpse into the social and economic life of the Danish capital during the mid-18th century. The image presents a carefully constructed view of the city, emphasizing its order and prosperity. The architecture reflects the values of the time, with clean lines and symmetrical facades which symbolize civic pride and rational urban planning. The presence of carriages and pedestrians suggests a bustling commercial environment. It's crucial to remember that images like these don't just reflect reality; they also shape it. Bruun's print may have been commissioned by the city itself, to promote Copenhagen as a center of trade and culture. To understand its full meaning, we can consult maps, tax records, and other documents that reveal the social structures and power dynamics of 18th-century Copenhagen.