Gezichten op Amsterdam c. 1840 - 1866

Johannes Hilverdink created this print called "Gezichten op Amsterdam" – or "Views of Amsterdam" – during the 19th century, a time when the Netherlands was experiencing rapid social and political changes. This serene cityscape, with its calm waters and orderly architecture, presents an idealized version of urban life. But what is absent? Where are the signs of industrialization and the working class? The focus on the canal and stately buildings speaks to the values of the dominant merchant class, who shaped Amsterdam’s identity. Hilverdink offers a particular view of the city, one that reflects the aspirations and self-image of its elite. While this print offers a glimpse into Amsterdam's past, it also prompts us to consider whose stories are told and whose are left out of the historical record. What other narratives might be hidden beneath the surface of this tranquil scene?