Zie hier zespaar handelaren, / Meest voorzien van zulke waren, / Lieve jeugd, u afgebeeld, / Daar de smaak door wordt gestreeld c. 18th - 19th century

This print by C.A. Verkouteren, whose dates are unknown, probably dates from the 19th century and presents us with six pairs of street vendors, each peddling their wares. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the micro-economies of the early modern city in the Netherlands. We see vendors selling fish, produce, and even live ducks. These were the people who brought food and other necessities to people’s doorsteps. The rhythmic composition and inclusion of little poems gives the print an almost musical quality. What’s interesting is how the artist represents these workers. Are they romanticized, or realistically portrayed? The work is published in Bergen op Zoom, which means it was likely intended for local consumption. Was it meant to educate, entertain, or perhaps even to subtly comment on the social hierarchy? Answering these questions involves digging into local archives, studying the history of trade and labor in the region, and understanding the role of prints in shaping public opinion.