Zeemeermin van Edam, 1403 1784 - 1786

"Zeemeermin van Edam, 1403" (1784-1786) is an anonymous etching depicting a mermaid standing on a beach in Edam, Netherlands. This piece, likely from a series, references the legend of a mermaid appearing in Edam in 1403. The mermaid holds a spindle and a plumb line, possibly symbolizing the town's textile industry and its trade. The image is part of a larger narrative, as the text below explains the story of the mermaid and Edam's response. This etching is a valuable example of Dutch historical folklore and artistic style, providing insights into both the artistic and the social landscape of the 18th century.