Dimensions: height 422 mm, width 305 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This is an illustrated print titled "Here you have the life and business of Jan de Wasser and his wife," created by Johannes Kannewet in Amsterdam. The series of vignettes depicts the everyday activities and struggles of a working-class couple, offering a glimpse into their domestic life. The checkerboard floor places these figures in familiar domestic interiors which were commonly associated with didactic prints from this period. The emphasis on the couple's labor reflects the economic realities of 18th-century Netherlands, where many families relied on the combined efforts of both partners for survival. The depiction of marital strife also hints at the social dynamics and gender roles within households. The use of simple, accessible imagery suggests that this print was intended for a broad audience, possibly serving as both entertainment and a moral lesson. Understanding this artwork requires a look into the visual culture of the Dutch Golden Age. Research into the history of printmaking, popular literature, and social customs would offer greater insights into its meaning and significance.
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