Twee gezichten op buitenplaats Belvédère 1725 - 1768

These undated engravings by an anonymous artist, depict two views of the Belvédère estate in the Netherlands. Images like these circulated widely, offering glimpses into the lives of the elite during a period defined by stark class divisions. In the upper scene, a horse-drawn carriage approaches the Belvédère estate, illustrating a journey into leisure and privilege, while figures stroll through manicured gardens, underscoring the separation between those who labor and those who enjoy the fruits of that labor. The lower scene shows a gathering of formally dressed individuals. Consider how access to such idyllic spaces was deeply interwoven with social status. The Belvédère estate was not just a place, but a symbol of power. These images serve as reminders of the historical disparities that continue to shape our present, prompting reflection on how societal structures influence who has access to beauty, comfort, and ease.