Gezicht op een straat in Middelburg Possibly 1857 - 1858

Cornelis Springer made this pencil drawing titled 'Gezicht op een straat in Middelburg', or 'View of a Street in Middelburg'. Springer, born in 1817, lived through a time of significant social and political change in the Netherlands. His art captures the transformation of the Dutch urban landscape. While Springer's works appear to be straightforward depictions of city life, his images often reflect an idealized view of Dutch society, carefully composed to evoke nostalgia for a simpler time. The choice to depict Middelburg, a city with a rich history and architectural beauty, speaks to a desire to preserve a sense of national identity amidst modernization. Note the absence of people in the street; this void invites us to contemplate our own place within the landscape. Springer's work, while seemingly traditional, subtly challenges viewers to consider what aspects of their culture they value.