De schaapsherder en zijne drie honden 1828 - 1937

Oehmigke & Riemschnieder created this illustrated print, "De schaapsherder en zijne drie honden", with a moralizing narrative, but without a specified date. The tale unfolds in a series of small scenes, a common format for didactic storytelling popular in the 19th century. It depicts a shepherd boy’s journey from humble beginnings to acceptance by the King. These images aren't just quaint illustrations; they reflect the era’s social codes and aspirations. The story emphasizes themes of loyalty, hard work, and the possibility of upward mobility. The boy rises in status, and the woman transforms from wearing simple dresses to more lavish gowns which reveal gendered expectations of success through marriage. The inclusion of animals goes beyond mere pastoral charm; the dogs embody virtues deemed essential. This work encourages us to reflect on how stories shape our perceptions and societal hierarchies. How do these kinds of narratives reinforce or challenge the status quo?