Het Hollandsch spreekwoord is een woord der schranderheid, / Daarom is in dat vak deez kinder-prent bereid 1806 - 1830

Editor: Here we have "The Dutch proverb is a word of shrewdness, therefore this children's print is made in that subject" from sometime between 1806 and 1830, an engraving by Johan Noman, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. It is packed with tiny scenes, a bit overwhelming. What can you tell me about it? Curator: This is a fascinating example of popular culture finding its way into print. Consider the social context. Broadsides like this were essentially the internet of their time. What stories are they telling? Editor: I see people engaging in all sorts of activities - fighting, drinking, working… Are these everyday scenes? Curator: Perhaps seemingly "everyday", but it could be argued that many prints conveyed moral messages, subtly shaping public opinion and social norms, and were closely linked to political power. What kind of character is the artist painting and to whom is this for? What's their political intention in an Era defined by war in Europe? Editor: So it’s not just about recording daily life, but also about reinforcing certain values. Like conduct and good government! I am impressed how all this richness in meanings fit in a children’s drawing. Curator: Exactly! These prints were powerful tools, subtly influencing the public. Knowing this, what’s your takeaway? Editor: I see how even seemingly simple images can be deeply connected to the socio-political landscape. This has changed my perspective on art! Curator: Mine too. There’s so much that images are allowed to express freely, unlike our speech!