Fashion & Costume · 20th century
€ 180
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good to very good condition. Some scattered foxing in the margins and mild edge toning. Colors remain strong and well defined. No creases or tears.
Amsterdam Orphan Girl in Traditional Costume – Print by N. van der Waay, 1923
Atmospheric and historically evocative interior scene titled Amsterdamsch Weesmeisje (“Amsterdam Orphan Girl”), drawn by Dutch painter and professor Nicolaas van der Waay and published as a high-quality chromolithograph in the Haagsche Post Christmas edition of 25 December 1923 (No. 639).
The image depicts a young girl in the iconic red-and-black uniform of the Amsterdam Civic Orphanage (Burgerweeshuis), pausing with a tray of porcelain cups in a richly furnished 17th-century interior. Her attire includes a black bodice, white linen shawl, starched headscarf, and vivid red skirt—instantly recognizable as the traditional dress worn by orphan girls under municipal care in Amsterdam until the late 19th century. The interior, with its high wood paneling, tapestries, heavy chairs, candle chandelier, and Delft ceramics, evokes the grandeur of a Dutch Golden Age home.
Van der Waay (1855–1936), a prominent Amsterdam-based painter and professor at the Rijksakademie, was widely admired for his historical genre scenes, portraits, and murals. He captured everyday life with an emphasis on cultural heritage and atmosphere. His signature appears in the lower right corner of the print.
This work was specially commissioned for the Haagsche Post Christmas number, a deluxe annual supplement featuring leading contemporary Dutch artists. Printed by L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, this edition is notable for its rich tones and detailed reproduction.
The composition beautifully blends nostalgia, civic pride, and genre painting tradition, making it a wonderful collector’s item for those interested in Dutch culture, traditional costumes, or 19th–early 20th century historical revival art.
Condition report:
Good to very good condition. Some scattered foxing in the margins and mild edge toning. Colors remain strong and well defined. No creases or tears.
Framing tips:
A dark walnut or black wooden frame with a warm beige or linen mat will enhance the historic character of the scene. Float mounting will allow the full text and artist’s signature to remain visible.
Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Nicolaas van der Waay, The Netherlands
Publisher: L. van Leer & Co., Amsterdam, for *Haagsche Post*, 1923
