O Jeugd! gy ziet hier ernst en spel, / Behaagt dit print-tafreel u wel, / Ook tydverdryf en and're zaken; / Laat het dan ook uw' geest vermaken 1818 - 1828

This print, made by W. van Bergen, presents a series of scenes offering both 'seriousness and play' to delight the spirit. The arrangement into a grid recalls emblem books, popular in the Netherlands during the 17th and 18th centuries. These books combined images with text, offering moral or philosophical lessons. While the specific date of this print is unknown, its style and subject matter suggest it reflects the values of the Dutch Enlightenment. Each scene provides a glimpse into the social life of the time, from leisurely pursuits like fishing to domestic scenes and courting rituals. The presence of text accompanying each image invites viewers to contemplate the deeper meanings behind these everyday activities, and perhaps guides them toward virtuous behavior. To fully understand this print, one could consult emblem books, conduct research into the history of Dutch printmaking, and study the social customs of the time. By exploring these avenues, we can gain a richer appreciation for the print's cultural significance and its role in shaping social norms.