IJsvermaak op de Maas te Rotterdam, gezien vanaf het bolwerk, 1855 1855 - 1861

Gerardus Johannes Bos made this print titled *Ice Fun on the Meuse at Rotterdam, Seen from the Bulwark* in 1855. Bos’s image offers a glimpse into the social life of mid-19th century Netherlands. The frozen river becomes a stage for a diverse crowd, a cross-section of society momentarily united by leisure. Note the various activities: skating, sledding, and gathering around tents, perhaps for food and drink. This wasn't just recreation; it was a social spectacle, a temporary suspension of everyday life and routines. Looking at the details, you might wonder about the relationship between this scene and the urban environment of Rotterdam. The bulwark suggests a structured, almost theatrical space from which to view this spectacle. Prints like this one played a role in shaping a sense of national identity, offering a shared visual experience that transcended local boundaries. Understanding this artwork requires delving into the visual culture of the time and sources such as newspapers and social commentary. Through such work, we can better understand the interplay between social life and artistic representation.