The Life and Identity of Simon Klapmuts Simon Klapmuts was born in Moordrecht, the son of Willem Simonsz Klapmuts and Maria Willems Soos. His presence in the local records begins with his baptism on 24 January 1734. He spent his life as a painter, drawer, printmaker, and etcher, working within the Dutch Republic. His hands were accustomed to the fine lines of etching and the steady application of paint. In 1755, he married Hester Langhoorn. His life remained tied to the region, moving through the years as a practitioner of his craft. He eventually passed away in Moordrecht in 1780. He was l…