Den haan zal 's morgens vroeg het huysgezin opwekken, / Het hennetje zal met eyers voen het huys, / En 't hontje zal de pot, en schotels schoontjes lekken: / En 't katje dat verjaagt en vangt de rot en muys 1770 - 1794

Editor: So, this is “Den haan zal 's morgens vroeg het huysgezin opwekken…” It’s an etching and woodcut print made sometime between 1770 and 1794 by Erven Hendrik van der Putte. It gives off a really interesting, folksy vibe. All those little domestic scenes... what jumps out at you about this work? Curator: Well, for starters, it makes me think of childhood – like a page torn from a very old children’s book! The directness of the images, combined with the verses… it's trying to teach us something, isn't it? But beyond the surface simplicity, there's a delightful awkwardness in the animals' proportions that’s incredibly charming. It feels like the artist cared less about anatomical accuracy and more about conveying… character, wouldn’t you agree? Editor: Absolutely! There’s a certain… naivete. It is refreshing! But the verses—do they give any insight into the intent of the work? Curator: Ah, the verses! They read almost like a promise, or perhaps an ideal. A world where every creature has its place, contributing to the smooth running of the household. The rooster wakes you, the hen provides eggs, the dog cleans up… It’s all very orderly! And perhaps a little… satirical? Is that too much? I love a good slice of subtle satire! Editor: Satirical… intriguing. It wasn't something I'd immediately considered. Now I’m thinking of these almost as little social commentaries. Curator: Exactly! Maybe not biting satire, more of a gentle nudge. What do *you* make of the cat catching a rat – domestic bliss or survival of the fittest playing out in miniature? Editor: I think I love how multi-layered it is. Thank you! Curator: My pleasure.