Kinderen, door vlytig leeren, Ziet ge eindelyk u, ook in uw bedryf vereeren 1825 - 1838

This undated print by T.L. Thompson, made in Rotterdam, visualizes labor as a series of respectable, gendered trades, offering us a glimpse into the social values of its time. Each panel depicts a different occupation—from the tailor and shoemaker to the blacksmith and potter. The figures, all men except the tailor, are shown diligently at work, reinforcing the Protestant work ethic. Notice how the image subtly promotes social order and the value of labor. The presence of distinct trades suggests a complex, functioning society where each role is vital. The print's didactic tone, reflected in the caption ‘Children, through diligent learning, you will eventually honor yourself in your work’, speaks to the aspirations of the rising middle class. Thompson's print offers not just a picture of work, but a vision of society structured by it. It suggests that through labor, one finds not only economic stability but also a sense of purpose and place within the community.