Kinderdeugden 1842

This print, "Kinderdeugden," meaning children's virtues, was made by Jan Schuitemaker, and published in Purmerende, Netherlands. This artwork seems to be a page from a children’s magazine, which visually presents ideas for good behavior. The six scenes show different virtues like obedience, helpfulness, and contentment. These aren't just random acts, but reflections of a culture emphasizing moral education. The imagery is presented in the form of small vignettes accompanied by descriptive text. Schuitemaker uses accessible scenes of everyday life: a child diligently reading, another sharing their belongings, and a third telling the truth. This connects moral instruction to the daily experiences of young people. The cultural context includes the rise of print media for children in the 19th century and the development of ideas about childhood innocence. Understanding this artwork involves looking at the history of education, children’s literature, and the broader social values of the time. Examining the archives of the publishing house would offer further insights into the creation of "Kinderdeugden".