Met het kleine vangt men aan 1874

Curator: This lithograph print from 1874, titled "Met het kleine vangt men aan," which translates to "With the small one begins," certainly presents a moral tale through its sequential images. It’s quite charming, don’t you think, with its quaint depiction of childhood mischief? Editor: It’s really interesting seeing a story told through these little scenes. It almost feels like an early comic strip. What strikes you most about how this story is conveyed? Curator: I’m immediately drawn to its socio-political commentary embedded within what appears to be a simple narrative about naughty boys. Consider the era in which it was created—19th-century Europe saw rapid industrialization and stark class divisions. Could these images be subtly critiquing the social mobility, or lack thereof, afforded to certain segments of society? Does "starting with the small" hint at the limited opportunities available to working-class children? Editor: That's a really compelling reading. I was just thinking about it as a cautionary tale about bad behaviour. But I can definitely see that your interpretation is far more grounded and that adds another dimension to what seems to be very simple. So, these little acts of petty crime... what do you think it is telling us? Curator: Well, the actions in each frame progressively escalate, leading to a clear consequence. Doesn't it ask us to think about societal structures, class, and justice? Look closely at the final scene. Who ends up confined? This illustration serves as a mirror reflecting contemporary societal values of justice and consequence for children who break rules and transgress norms, inviting us to ask who gets to make those rules. Do you see it? Editor: Absolutely, looking at it from the perspective of the period's social issues it really gives me a much deeper understanding, thanks! Curator: Indeed. By placing art within its historical context, it enables a deeper comprehension and opens the way for richer interpretation, and appreciation.