Museum van huisdieren 1848 - 1881

Lutkie & Cranenburg created this print titled ‘Museum van huisdieren’ which translates to ‘Museum of Pets’. In this work, a collection of domestic animals are displayed, almost as specimens. The animals are not realistically represented, with each outlined in black and filled with distinct colors. One wonders if this reflects the societal and cultural values of the time, where the relationship between humans and animals was based on ownership and control? With the advent of industrialization, pets became further entrenched within domestic life, reflecting a sense of control over the natural world. Here, the ‘museum’ alludes to the way that these animals are possessed and exhibited. This print provides a glimpse into how human attitudes toward animals were evolving, reflecting the complex intersection of affection, dominance, and cultural identity.