Vogelen 1850

"Vogelen", or "Birds," is a print by Jan Schuitemaker, created as part of a series for children on natural history. Prints like these were integral to shaping public perception and understanding of the natural world, reflecting a burgeoning scientific interest alongside social hierarchies. Each bird is depicted within its own European cultural landscape, with accompanying text meant to educate, but what does it mean to categorize and contain nature in this way? Consider the peacock, a symbol of beauty and luxury, displayed alongside the domesticity of hens and the wildness of pheasants. Schuitemaker’s approach subtly reinforces existing societal values. The emotional draw is clear - a fascination with the beauty and diversity of birds. Yet, this visual organization also speaks to power dynamics of humans over the natural world. How do these historical representations of nature continue to shape our understanding and relationship with the environment today?