Gezicht op het Stedelijk Badhuis aan het strand bij Scheveningen 1830

Charles Onghena’s "Gezicht op het Stedelijk Badhuis aan het strand bij Scheveningen" gives us a glimpse into the social and cultural life of the 19th century. This print captures the essence of Scheveningen as a burgeoning seaside resort, a place of leisure and health. The bathhouse stands as a symbol of modernity, offering the promise of physical and social rejuvenation to its visitors. Yet, we should also consider the unspoken narratives within this scene: Who had access to such places of leisure? The leisurely scene hints at the privileges afforded by class and social standing, setting the stage for a deeper reflection on the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion. Consider how the beach becomes a stage where societal norms are both performed and subtly challenged. Onghena's print invites us to reflect on the complex layers of identity, history, and power that shape our experiences of public space.