Boterwaag, Weigh house in The Hague, Netherlands.
The Boterwaag is a weigh house on Prinsegracht in The Hague, built in Neoclassical style with original weighing scales and a brass bell displayed on its facade. The building was constructed in two phases, with the left section completed first and a right extension added to expand weighing operations.
Architect Bartholomeus van Bassen completed the left section in 1650. A right extension was added in 1681 to accommodate additional weighing operations.
Upstairs, the building once served as a meeting place for the Confrerie Pictura, a group of painters who broke away from the Guild of St. Luke. The space allowed artists to gather and work together outside the strict guild system.
The right section now functions as a cafe, allowing visitors to experience the historical interior while enjoying refreshments. This arrangement lets you explore the space naturally as you spend time there.
The original weighing scales from 1681 remain visible inside the building, showing the craftsmanship of historical measuring instruments. These working devices offer a rare glimpse into how daily commerce operated centuries ago.
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