Illuminatie voor het huis van H.W. Cramer te Amsterdam, 1788 1788

This 1788 engraving by Dutch artist Jan Lucas van der Beek depicts an elaborate illumination, a celebratory display of lights, erected in front of the Amsterdam home of H.W. Cramer. The design, reminiscent of a grand archway, is constructed from rows of glowing lanterns, culminating in a star at the apex. The engraving captures the festive ambiance of the event, with figures observing the spectacle in the foreground. This detailed architectural illustration provides a glimpse into the festive traditions of 18th century Amsterdam and the skill of Dutch printmaking.