Gezicht vanaf de Nieuwendijk op de Dam en de Kalverstraat 1816 - 1875

Paulus Lauters captured this view of the Nieuwendijk, the Dam, and the Kalverstraat in an undated etching. Lauters, working in the 19th century, situated himself in a time of significant urban and social transformation. At first glance, the print offers a picturesque scene of a bustling Amsterdam square, populated by figures who reflect the city's social hierarchy. Wealthier individuals are shown in carriages, while others, presumably of a lower social class, navigate the space on foot. The architecture looms large, symbolizing power and permanence. Yet, this representation is not neutral. Consider what is included, and what is left out. The viewpoint, carefully chosen, reinforces existing power structures and obscures other narratives. In a rapidly changing world, Lauters chooses to immortalize a specific vision of Amsterdam, one that speaks to the values and concerns of his time. This piece invites us to reflect on the stories we tell about our cities and who gets to tell them.