Vismarkt te Scheveningen c. 1664 - 1674

Pieter Bout created this etching titled "Vismarkt te Scheveningen" in the late 17th or early 18th century. It captures the bustling fish market of Scheveningen, a Dutch coastal town, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of its inhabitants. The scene brims with activity: figures haggle over the fresh catch, while others mend nets or simply observe the lively proceedings. The composition and the medium in which it was made speak to specific developments in Dutch art during this period. Prints were popular and affordable and served as a means of circulating images. The Rijksmuseum, where this print is housed, serves an important role in preserving and interpreting these works. As historians, we look beyond the surface, delving into archival records and social histories to understand the economic structures that supported this trade, as well as the cultural values and traditions that shaped community life.