Dit is 't oud gebruyk der kinderen / En duurd nog zonder hinderen 1770 - 1794

Editor: This etching and engraving from the late 18th century, "Dit is 't oud gebruyk der kinderen / En duurd nog zonder hinderen," attributed to Erven Hendrik van der Putte, depicts various scenes of children's activities. The little boxes create an almost comic strip feel. What catches my eye is the potential social commentary. How do you interpret this work through that lens? Curator: It's crucial to see this through a class lens. While seemingly innocent, genre scenes like these often served to reinforce social hierarchies. Consider the depiction of labor—are all children afforded leisure time, or are some depicted in what might be seen as labor, even as “play”? Where does the "comic" intersect with social expectation? Editor: That's an interesting point. I hadn’t thought about labor. So, instead of simply a charming snapshot of childhood, it's presenting an idealized vision? Curator: Precisely! What's included, and perhaps more importantly, what’s excluded? Consider the artist's choices. Is this "comic" vision meant to obscure some more challenging realities faced by children during this period, especially considering varying social standings? What specific scenes do you see reflecting different power dynamics, and can you relate to how history repeats itself? Editor: Now I see a deeper complexity. The panel with children begging stands out; the lack of that specific panel in my childhood memories feels telling. It’s not just about showing childhood, it's about constructing a narrative of childhood rooted in privilege, and also lack thereof. I will consider social responsibilities while observing any artwork from now on. Curator: And how might these constructed narratives influence our perceptions and treatment of children today, particularly concerning labor and social justice? Food for thought. Editor: Absolutely, this deeper dive helps reveal so much more! Thank you for sharing that with me.