De bedelende kinderen 1878

De Ruyter & Meijer created this print titled "De bedelende kinderen," or "The Begging Children," using an engraving technique. Prints like this, intended for a wide audience, offer a glimpse into the social mores and economic realities of the time, presumably the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in a series of vignettes, revealing a tale of poverty, loss, and eventual salvation. We see children who have lost their father begging in the streets, facing hardship and moral dilemmas. The image raises questions about the representation of childhood innocence amidst economic hardship. How do gender and class intersect to shape the experiences of these children? How does the story reflect societal attitudes toward poverty and charity? The narrative arc, culminating in a scene of piety and gratitude, subtly reinforces dominant religious values. While seemingly a simple children's story, the print offers insight into the complex interplay of social structures, moral values, and individual experiences.