Deez' Prent strek' U, o lieve Jeugd! / Tot leering bij gepaste vreugd (...) 1850 - 1870

This hand-colored etching titled “Deez’ Prent strek’ U, o lieve Jeugd! / Tot leering bij gepaste vreugd (…),’ was created by P.C.L. van Staden Czn. Prints like this one were designed to shape young minds and reflect the values of the time. The use of animals in these little scenes provides a window into the prevailing attitudes toward the natural world. Were animals seen as companions, or as resources? Do they mirror human behavior, or offer a contrast? Consider too, who had access to such materials. Education and leisure were not universally available, highlighting the nuances of class and privilege inherent in the artwork’s creation and reception.