View of the Louvre and the Tuileries, from Views of Paris and Neighborhoods, plate 1 1635 - 1670

This etching of the Louvre and Tuileries in Paris was made by Reinier Nooms in the mid-17th century, capturing a bustling river scene alongside the iconic architecture. Nooms, also known as Zeeman, specialized in maritime subjects, and his careful rendering of boats here gives us insight into the river’s vital role in Parisian life and trade at the time. The Louvre, initially built as a fortress, had undergone significant transformations during this period, reflecting the evolving power and ambition of the French monarchy. Note the contrast between the grand palace and the more workaday scenes of boats and people on the riverbank. The print was produced in Amsterdam, suggesting a market for images of Paris among Dutch audiences and pointing to a network of artistic exchange. To learn more about the social and economic conditions of 17th-century Paris, historians often turn to sources such as period documents and visual culture. By studying the artwork in its historical context, we can gain insights into the complex interplay of power, commerce, and culture.