Zomer 1721 - 1771

This print, "Zomer," was made by Jeremias Wachsmuth, likely in the mid-18th century. The image suggests the season of summer through a series of vignettes framed by elaborate, decorative borders. Looking at the image, we see a carefully constructed vision of leisure and refinement, perhaps reflecting the values and aspirations of the rising middle class in Europe at that time. The figures, dressed in elegant clothing, are engaged in activities such as music-making and conversation, all set within a picturesque landscape. This idealized vision of summer speaks to the cultural importance of leisure and recreation, but we should also ask: whose summer is this? Who gets to enjoy such leisurely pursuits? To really understand this print, we could research the social history of leisure in 18th-century Europe, looking at how class, gender, and economic status shaped people's experiences of the seasons. By doing so, we can start to unpack the complex social meanings embedded within this seemingly innocent image.