Gezicht op het Koningsplein en de Munttoren 1760 - 1783

Paulus van Liender created this print of the Koningsplein and Munttoren in Amsterdam during the late 18th century. The Dutch Golden Age had long passed, but Amsterdam remained a vital center for trade and culture, reflected in this tranquil, orderly scene. Notice how the figures are arranged: well-dressed individuals stroll casually, their lives seemingly undisturbed. Yet, this serene image exists in stark contrast to the period's deep social inequalities. The wealth that enabled such leisurely scenes was often built on colonial exploitation and trade. Van Liender, positioned within this society, presents a composed, almost idealized view, subtly reinforcing the status quo. Consider how the architecture and open spaces symbolize control and order. The Munttoren stands tall in the background, a reminder of the city's economic power. This print invites us to reflect on the relationship between beauty, privilege, and the often-unacknowledged realities of the time.