With their longtime penchant for lighter pleasures like bicycles and tulips, it’s hard to imagine an era when the Dutch were ruling the world. But they did have a golden age, during which they built a little city they called New Amsterdam and established the world’s first multinational corporation. The National Gallery of Art reminds visitors of this period with its latest exhibition, a collection of illustrations by artist Romeyn de Hooghe. Clearly influenced by Peter Paul Rubens, de Hooghe added artistic flourishes to everything from maps to religious materials. Unfortunately, his contributions to art history were gradually forgotten over the years; here, the National Gallery’s curators reintroduce him to 21st-century audiences. You won’t see etchings of tourists in Amsterdam coffeeshops or lush gardens, but if you’re curious about the days of William of Orange, de Hooghe’s work will give you some insight. The exhibition is on view Mondays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to Jan. 25 at the National Gallery of Art, 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW. Free. (202) 737-4215. nga.gov.