Zocher’s Stock Exchange, named after the building’s architect, stood formerly on the Dam, on the site of the present Bijenkorf department store. The classical-style edifice of 1845 however formed uncomfortable premises for traders, soon proving too small for expanding stock exchange activities in Amsterdam. It was demolished in 1903 and its functions were taken over by Berlage’s new Stock Exchange building. Monnickendam has depicted Zocher’s façade as a backdrop to a colourful mass of people filling the square. It is very likely that the painter chose Zocher’s building as his subject due to its pending demolition.