Het nieuw vermakelijk ganzenspel 1848 - 1881

This is "The New Amusing Game of Goose," a hand-colored etching made in the Netherlands in the 19th century by Lutkie and Cranenburg. At first glance, it may just seem like a simple board game, but let’s consider the social context in which it was made. This game emerged during a period of significant social and economic change in the Netherlands. In a society undergoing modernization, leisure activities like board games became increasingly popular among the middle class. "The Game of Goose" offered not only entertainment but also a reflection of social values and norms. The imagery, with its numbered spaces and symbolic pitfalls, subtly reinforces notions of progress, morality, and the pursuit of success. To truly understand the game's appeal and impact, we might look at how it was marketed, who played it, and how it was perceived by different segments of Dutch society. By consulting archival sources, such as advertisements, game manuals, and contemporary accounts, we can gain deeper insights into the cultural significance of "The New Amusing Game of Goose" and its role in shaping social identities and behaviors.