Groothandel in kleinigheden 1848 - 1881

“Groothandel in kleinigheden,” or "Wholesale in small items," is a print of unknown date by Lutkie & Cranenburg, part of the Rijksmuseum collection. The print depicts sixteen vignettes of street vendors, each labeled with their wares: milk, lemons, baskets, and even sharpening services. The people depicted in this print offer us a glimpse into the lives of working-class individuals, whose livelihoods depended on bartering and selling goods. The gendered division of labor is evident, with both men and women engaged in different forms of trade. These vendors represent the backbone of the city's economy, and their presence speaks to the vibrant, bustling nature of urban life. The print employs a simplistic style and limited color palette, reflecting a time when mass production of images was still in its early stages. This aesthetic choice evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting us to a pre-industrial era. By depicting the daily lives of ordinary people, the artist invites us to reflect on the values of hard work, resilience, and community.