Echt spel 1887 - 1905

This is "Echt Spel" (Real Game), an undated print by the 19th-century monogrammist AM, currently held at the Rijksmuseum. Published as part of a series of children’s illustrations, this print captures the essence of childhood games and activities, offering a window into the social and cultural values of the late 19th century. These scenes are carefully arranged to depict different facets of play. What can be seen through these images is how gender and class play out in the lives of children, from the solitary play of a girl with a doll carriage to the boisterous games of boys in the streets. The artist explores themes of innocence, camaraderie, and the formative experiences of childhood, providing a glimpse into the social norms and expectations of the era. Consider the emotional resonance of these images. Do you find nostalgia in these portrayals of childhood? "Echt Spel" encourages us to reflect on the intersection between personal experience and collective identity, inviting us to contemplate the universal nature of play.