Kinder-spel 1761 - 1804

Editor: Here we have "Kinder-spel," or "Children's Games," a print made by Hermanus Numan somewhere between 1761 and 1804. It's a series of small scenes depicting children at play, rendered with fine lines and a playful touch, reminding me a bit of old playing cards. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: The piece feels so personal, so intuitive. To me, "Kinder-spel" sings a little song of its time. Imagine stepping back into the late 18th century. What kind of childhood do you picture? It was different, wasn’t it? A bit stricter, more formal, as seen in the attire. But despite the strict upbringing they’ve still carved out a space for the magic of simple toys. Does this connect in some way to how we see childhood reflected today? Editor: That's a good point. These kids seem much more formally dressed than kids do today. Does that mean childhood was less carefree back then? Curator: Perhaps, but maybe that just reflects the values and aesthetics of the Dutch Golden Age and Baroque periods – styles which were prominent in Numan's time and you see those stylistic features echoed in the fine details, the careful composition, and even the themes presented. Each game seems to have a moral underpinning as well, suggesting how childhood itself was viewed – how one *should* see it – in society then. Editor: I hadn’t thought of it that way – that each tableau can contain its own little lesson! Curator: And does this connect to anything you observe in art today? It has made me consider a fresh appreciation of simplicity of art pieces over time. Editor: Absolutely. Now I see that these aren’t just images of children playing; they are little reflections of society and morality of the time. A real portal to another era through the eyes of its youth.