Puss in Boots, an entertaining School-Piece: by Young Slyboots [School piece or Penmanship sheet] 1802

"Puss in Boots, an Entertaining School-Piece," made in the late 18th or early 19th century by Laurie & Whittle, presents a visual narrative of the classic fairy tale. Produced during a period of significant social stratification in Europe, the print reflects the era's fascination with social mobility and courtly life. Framed as a penmanship sheet, the artwork underscores the importance of literacy and education. The story of Puss in Boots—where a cat helps his master rise in social status through cleverness and deceit—resonates with the aspirations of a society marked by rigid class structures. The tale's central theme revolves around the idea of manipulating appearances to gain social acceptance. The emotional core of this piece lies in its depiction of transformation and the blurring of social boundaries. The narrative is a fantasy and prompts us to consider how stories shape our perceptions of worth, and the complexities of identity within unequal societies.