Topgevel c. 1863

This pencil drawing of a gable was made by Cornelis Springer, a Dutch artist known for his cityscapes, in the 19th century. Springer was part of a larger movement that sought to preserve and celebrate the Netherlands' architectural heritage. The 19th century was a time of rapid urbanization and industrialization. These developments brought concerns about the loss of historical buildings and the character of old cities. Artists like Springer found a ready market for their depictions of architectural landmarks, helping to raise awareness of the Netherlands' cultural history. What does it mean that Dutch museums today display drawings like this one? It tells us that they recognize the importance of architectural preservation and the role of art in shaping perceptions of cultural identity. To learn more, look into the history of urban planning and heritage preservation in the Netherlands.