Nieuwjaarswens van de Amsterdamse courantombrengers voor het jaar 1838 1837 - 1838

Jacob Coldewijn created this broadsheet, a New Year's greeting from the Amsterdam newspaper carriers for the year 1838. During this period, the Netherlands was a constitutional monarchy, but still grappling with the social and economic inequalities left by previous regimes. This New Year’s wish, then, becomes an interesting artifact. It provides insight into the values and concerns of the common people in Amsterdam during this transitional time. Consider the role of the newspaper carriers themselves. They were often working-class individuals who navigated the city streets, connecting different communities through the dissemination of information. Their annual greeting served as a means of expressing solidarity with the citizens, while also subtly reminding them of the importance of their work. The text likely reflects the hopes and anxieties of the time, touching upon themes of social justice, economic prosperity, and national identity. It is a reminder of the power of collective expression and the role of art in shaping public discourse.