Omroeper Possibly 1772 - 1833

Mathias de Sallieth created this print, Omroeper, sometime in the late 18th century. During this period in Europe, the Enlightenment was challenging traditional hierarchies, yet rigid class structures persisted. Here, the town crier stands as a figure caught between worlds. Tasked with relaying official news, he embodies a form of communication accessible to all, yet his attire hints at a certain status, a distinction from the masses he addresses. As he rings his bell and holds his announcement, we might consider the nature of the messages he conveys. Are they truly for everyone, or do they serve to reinforce the existing social order? De Sallieth’s choice to depict this figure invites us to reflect on how information shapes society and who has access to it. It's a reminder that even in moments of public address, power dynamics are always at play.