De lent schetst het beeld der jeugd, / De zomer jonge-lieden deugd. / De herfst vertoont den huwelijks-tijd. / De winter wijst op d' eeuwigheid 1820 - 1838

Christiaan Jacob Schuyling created this print in the Netherlands, sometime around the early 19th century, using etching. The image is divided into four scenes, representing the seasons of life. Each scene reflects the social values of the time, particularly around family and civic duty. The first shows children enjoying spring, followed by young adults in summer giving thanks. The third depicts a wedding in autumn, and the final scene shows a family in winter, with the father reading by the fireside. This final scene reflects the importance of familial knowledge and the passing on of tradition. Prints like these offer us a window into the social and cultural life of the Netherlands at the time, and the values that were considered important. By looking at the clothing, the activities depicted, and the surrounding landscapes, we can begin to understand the priorities of Dutch society and the role of the family. Resources in local archives might give greater context to the social values of the time.