Despite its small size, the Netherlands undoubtedly became the centre of world trade during the 17th century. It was rich, powerful, innovative and influential. The 18th century witnessed a slow and slight decline in comparison, especially with rising competition from France and England. Annette Welkamp recently presented the lecture Not quite the Golden Age, but still rather grand: some Dutch architecture & interiors from 1750 to 1850 on 19 July 2011 at The Johnston Collection. Guests were taken on a tour of well-known and less familiar houses, palaces and other properties across the country, including Paleis Het Loo (Apeldoorn), Fraeylemaborg (Slochteren) and Teylers Museum (Harlem). The Johnston Collection, East Melbourne.