Mokkende schooljongen c. 1724 - 1814

This anonymous drawing, “Mokkende schooljongen”, depicts two young boys in simple clothing, one standing still with a book and another in motion, perhaps skipping. The drawing is framed in a simple border, which, along with the minimalist details of the boys’ clothes and the landscape, hints at a focus on naturalistic observation and a connection to the Dutch tradition of genre painting. The work's small size and lack of a specific location suggest a personal study rather than a public commission. The image provides a glimpse into the everyday life of children during this period, revealing a playful and somewhat humorous take on the subject of childhood.