Beschouw al vroeg, ô jeugd! de staten van het leven, / Van trap tot trap: u wordt in dit prent-tafreel gegeven [(...)] 1806 - 1830

This print, made by J. Robyn, presents a meditation on the stages of life, reflecting the social and cultural values of its time. The image depicts life as a series of steps, each labeled with an age, leading to old age and ultimately, death. The artwork reflects a society deeply concerned with morality and the passage of time. It suggests a linear progression through life, emphasizing the importance of living virtuously in accordance with religious doctrine to ensure a peaceful journey. The figures are rigidly posed, representative of societal expectations and roles at different life stages. The print also acknowledges the inevitability of aging and death, but frames them within a context of spiritual preparation. The imagery is a reminder of the transience of earthly existence and the importance of focusing on spiritual matters. Ultimately, this print serves as both a moral guide and a reflection on the human condition, capturing the anxieties and aspirations of a society grappling with issues of mortality, virtue, and the passage of time.