Hier ziet gi kinderen weer een stoet, / Het zijnsoldaen vol van moed 1835 - 1837

Curator: Before us, we have "Hier ziet gi kinderen weer een stoet, / Het zijn soldaen vol van moed," a print and drawing, or more precisely, an engraving by W. Thompson, dating from between 1835 and 1837. What is your initial response to it? Editor: The organization of space into neatly labeled rows strikes me first, almost like a catalog. A restricted palette focuses attention on subtle shifts in the posture and gesture of these miniature soldiers. Curator: These soldiers, presented in a grid, highlight the militaristic fervor that was prevalent during periods of nation-building in 19th century Europe. There’s a glorification of military life here but within what context was this artwork made and for whom? Editor: Visually, it’s quite clever how Thompson uses the confines of each frame. Note how each individual figure is depicted in a slightly different position or with different armament. The subtle alterations creates movement throughout the entirety of the composition, transforming the individual cells into something more akin to a single moving frame. Curator: Indeed. Looking beyond the visual aspects, I’m also thinking about the title, which roughly translates to, "Here children, you see a troop / They are soldiers full of courage". Considering Thompson addresses the viewer directly and includes “children," might indicate this artwork may be intended to indoctrinate young minds, glorifying service as something brave and noble? Editor: Interesting proposition. While acknowledging the possibility, I’m still leaning more towards the structural integrity here. The figures may be posed as a form of a typological study; in the manner one might expect in the field of natural science rather than military propaganda. Each posture methodically presented and classified. Curator: I find your focus solely on form rather limiting here! It's hard to ignore the social, and potentially pedagogical functions this image had! Nevertheless, a fascinating discussion! Editor: And one that is clearly best taken to the library. Shall we?