Lief en leed van 't kleine volkje 1874

This print, titled "Lief en leed van 't kleine volkje," which translates to "The Loves and Sorrows of the Little People", likely emerged from the 19th century, a period marked by significant shifts in social structures and domestic ideals. Made by De Ruyter & Meijer, the artwork provides a window into the lives—and expectations—of children. The print is divided into vignettes, each offering a snapshot of childhood activities and emotions. We see children playing, dressing up, and imitating adult behaviors, reflecting the era's emphasis on the formative years as a training ground for future roles. The image of children gazing into a mirror raises questions about identity formation and self-perception, key themes in understanding how children learn to see themselves. It also touches on the burdens placed upon children. The depiction of a child comforting a doll poignantly illustrates the emotional lives of children, who navigate a world shaped by adult expectations. "The Loves and Sorrows of the Little People" encourages us to reflect on the universal experiences of childhood and the ways in which society shapes our understanding of youth.