Portret van een zittende jongen met hand in de blouse, op boek leunend 1864 - 1879

This is Leonard de Koningh’s portrait of a seated boy, a photograph that now resides in the Rijksmuseum. It presents us with an intriguing glimpse into 19th-century Dutch society and its evolving attitudes toward childhood and education. Made in a time of significant social change, the image offers insight into the values and aspirations of the Dutch middle class. The boy’s posture and attire signal a degree of formality and decorum, reflecting the era’s emphasis on respectability and self-control. The book upon which he leans is a potent symbol of education and upward mobility, suggesting the growing importance of knowledge and learning in shaping one's future. To fully appreciate this artwork, we must consider the social and institutional forces that shaped its creation and reception. A historian may want to explore period sources such as school curricula, conduct manuals, and family correspondence. These can reveal the broader context in which the artwork was made and viewed, enriching our understanding of its meaning and significance.