Kermisprent van de lantaarnopstekers van Amsterdam voor het jaar 1838 1838

Curator: Editor: Okay, let's talk about this etching and engraving titled "Kermisprent van de lantaarnopstekers van Amsterdam voor het jaar 1838," or "Carnival Print of the Lamplighters of Amsterdam for the year 1838." It feels very grounded and local with those lovely city details, and that little dog is adorable. I’m curious though – what exactly am I looking at here, and what's so special about it? Curator: Ah, my dear, what you see here is a perfect glimpse into Amsterdam life, circa 1838. You’re right, it *is* grounded. But not just literally! See how the artist, Jacob Coldewijn, frames a specific professional guild--the lamplighters--within the larger context of the annual fair? And notice that quaint, almost folksy style? It evokes a very particular feeling, doesn't it? Something between community pride and wry observation. Editor: Definitely! I can see the sense of community you’re talking about. Is that poem at the bottom part of the artwork? What is it about? Curator: Precisely! It's a "Kermis-Wensch" - a Carnival Wish. The poem expresses a sentiment of good fortune for the merchants, citizens, and inhabitants during the annual Amsterdam fair. It's an appeal from the lamplighters who want to convey seasonal wishes of good harvest, community celebration, and perhaps even the implicit value of their service. The lamplighters are literally bringing light during the dark time of the year. Editor: That makes so much more sense now. So it's a New Year-Christmas card! Curator: You could see it that way, indeed! This "print" acted as the lamplighters’ card of sorts, reminding everyone of their service and wishing them well, and perhaps, hoping for a good tip or two during the festivities! Don't you feel the warmth coming off it now? Editor: Absolutely. Thanks. Curator: Thanks to you for lighting the spark of interest!