Gezicht op de haven van Delfshaven 1780 - 1787

Mathias de Sallieth’s “Gezicht op de haven van Delfshaven” captures the bustling port city through an engraving. In the late 18th century, the Dutch Republic was a significant maritime power, deeply involved in global trade and colonial activities. Here, the artist depicts the energetic harbor scene, filled with ships and smaller vessels, reflecting the economic vitality and the complex dynamics of the Dutch Golden Age. However, the scene also hints at the less visible aspects of the port, such as the labor of sailors, dockworkers, and enslaved people whose efforts fueled this prosperity. The composition creates a sense of depth and movement, yet also invites a moment of reflection on how the maritime activities shaped the social hierarchies and cultural exchanges of the time. This artwork provides not only a visual record but also a reminder of the stories that often remain untold.