Gezicht op de citadel van Namen 1839 - 1841

Paulus Lauters created this view of the citadel of Namur using lithography, a printmaking technique. Lauters' artistic practice developed during a period of significant social and political change in Europe, marked by the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and nationalism. This print presents an ordered scene of nature, trade and the military. The imposing citadel is located on the hill overlooking the scene, which emphasizes the role of the military in maintaining societal order. On the river, boats carry goods and people, linking rural and urban economies. Meanwhile, in the foreground, we see people of different social classes, each contributing to the area's economy. The detailed depiction of daily life invites viewers to imagine themselves within the scene, experiencing the sights, sounds, and even smells of the bustling port city. The image offers a reminder of the past while reflecting enduring aspects of human society.