Brooduitdeling 1843 - 1876

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print, titled ‘Brooduitdeling’, using steel engraving. Here, we see bread being distributed to the poor, likely in the Netherlands, sometime in the mid-19th century. Consider the historical context: the Netherlands was experiencing significant social and economic changes. The rise of industrialization led to increased urbanization, creating a growing class of urban poor struggling with poverty and unemployment. Last's print likely reflects the social concerns and philanthropic efforts of the time. The act of distributing bread can be seen as a commentary on the role of charity and social responsibility in addressing poverty. The church spire in the background is an important cultural reference. It highlights the role of religious institutions in providing aid and support to the less fortunate. To fully understand this artwork, consider researching Dutch social history, the role of the church, and the development of social welfare systems during the 19th century.