Ziet hier eens welke nieuwe kuren / Op deze prent in acht figuren 1836 - 1849

This print titled 'Ziet hier eens welke nieuwe kuren' was made in Amsterdam by D. Lijsen. The prints’ images are accompanied by short rhyming poems, a common feature of popular imagery. The work shows different scenes of everyday life. The scenes depicted in the series of prints offer us a glimpse into the values and pastimes of Dutch society. Consider the image of children flying a kite, which speaks to a culture that values leisure and play. Other scenes depict courtship and perhaps speak to the social expectations around marriage and family. The very existence of printed material like this speaks to a culture of literacy and a growing middle class with the disposable income to purchase such things. As an art historian, I would want to know more about the printer, the intended audience, and the other types of images that were circulating at the time. Researching Dutch social history would provide more insight. This image, like all art, is best understood within its specific time and place.