Verheugt u vrij, gij, lieve kleinen, / Op 't feest, dat gij zoo goed toch kent. / Sint Nicolaas komt u verschijnen, / Maar neen, de vreugd in deze prent 1850 - 1870

This print, made by P.C.L. van Staden & Co., depicts scenes related to the Sinterklaas celebration. It's a fascinating window into Dutch culture and how social values are instilled in children through ritual and imagery. The image creates meaning through familiar visual codes: a bishop-like figure, gifts, and gatherings of children. The presence of Sinterklaas, a figure who rewards good behavior, speaks volumes about the social expectations of the time. It reflects a culture keen on reinforcing norms through the tradition. The scenes of shopping and gift-giving also highlight the economic aspects of this celebration and the commercial dimensions of Dutch culture. To understand this print better, one could explore historical accounts of Sinterklaas celebrations and analyze children's literature from the same period. The meaning of this print is deeply embedded in its social and institutional context.