Klederdracht van Kampen in Overijssel, 1857 1857

Ruurt de Vries made this print in 1857, depicting traditional clothing from Kampen in the province of Overijssel. It invites us to consider how images reflect and shape cultural identities. The scene offers a glimpse into Dutch domestic life. The distinctive clothing signifies regional identity, while the interior setting suggests social class and cultural values. Made during a period of increasing national consciousness, the print reflects a desire to document and preserve regional customs. Consider the ways in which the print may have been used to construct a sense of Dutch identity and to negotiate the relationship between regional particularity and national unity. The Rijksmuseum itself emerged as a key institution in this period. Understanding this artwork requires considering the social and cultural context in which it was produced and consumed. Museum archives, historical costume collections, and studies of Dutch regionalism offer valuable insights into its meaning. By exploring these resources, we can gain a deeper appreciation of how art engages with social structures and cultural identities.