MPX5165444: Washing day on the isle of Urk in the Zyder Zee. On this former island, which now belongs to the Netherlands by reclaiming of the Zyder Zee, all the women wash on the same day and though there is a shortage of soapin Holland, washing is one of the most important occupations of the Dutch housewifes. The laundrry is hung up in the streets by ropes, and it's a real exhibition of the linen cupboards of Urk. Our picture shows : Two Urk housewives at sunset in typical dress pass along the streets and inspect with a critical eye each others washing, c. 1950 (b/w photo) / Bridgeman Images