Hier vinde gij een negental van dieren, groot en klein / die, uitgezondert èèn, voor. 't menschdom nuttig zyn 1836 - 1849

Curator: This print, "Hier vinde gij een negental van dieren, groot en klein...", by D. Lijsen, dating from between 1836 and 1849, is a fascinating example of early Dutch natural history illustration. The use of engraving gives it a scientific, almost taxonomic feel. What do you see in this work, Editor? Editor: Well, initially, I’m struck by the... peculiar colouring! The red and blue stripes on each animal are quite striking against the muted background of the print itself. It feels almost… coded, somehow. Curator: Exactly! These colours aren’t merely decorative; they speak volumes about the socio-political context of the time. Consider the date – this print emerges during a period of burgeoning Dutch nationalism. Don't you think the colors could represent Dutch pride and perhaps subtly convey messages about Dutch identity and resources? Editor: So, the colours become a kind of visual shorthand for Dutchness itself? Are you suggesting these animals, these resources, are somehow being claimed or presented *as* inherently Dutch? Curator: Precisely. The print can be seen as a tool for constructing national identity. It subtly promotes a sense of ownership and connection to the land, natural resources, and even the animals themselves. Think about the audiences consuming such images. What impact would such messages have? Editor: It’s amazing how much history can be embedded within what seems like a simple image. I'll never look at an old print the same way again! Curator: And hopefully you'll approach everything else a bit differently as well! It's crucial to consider art as existing within cultural, social, and political landscapes.