Kinder-deugden en gebreken / Ziet ge in deze printjes spreken / Dat u alles tevens toon' / Ondeugds-straf en braafheids-loon 1811 - 1829

Gerrit Oortman created this print, “Children's Virtues and Vices,” at the turn of the 19th century, an era defined by shifting social values and the rise of the bourgeoisie. The print, reminiscent of a comic strip, presents a grid of moral lessons, offering a glimpse into the period's educational ideals and societal expectations. Gender roles are pronounced. Girls are urged towards domesticity and modesty, while boys are directed towards diligence and academic success. The virtues and vices depicted reflect the era’s emphasis on order, diligence, and piety, all essential for maintaining social stability. Each scene evokes a sense of didacticism. There is a sense of the emotional weight placed on children, as they navigate a world defined by strict moral codes. Ultimately, this print serves as a mirror reflecting the values of its time. The private sphere is presented as a moral training ground, and speaks to the emotional landscape of childhood in a world undergoing rapid transformation.