Geschiedenis van Jan de Wasscher 1848 - 1881

This undated print by Lutkie & Cranenburg, titled *Geschiedenis van Jan de Wasscher*, tells the story of Jan the washerman. Through a series of vignettes, we see Jan and Griet engaged in domestic life. These images offer insight into gender roles and the division of labor. The title centers Jan, but the visuals reveal the labor that sustains their household falls largely on Griet. While Jan is sometimes seen working, Griet is consistently shown engaged in tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and childcare. This representation reflects the societal expectations of women's work in the home, contrasting with Jan's occasional help. The emotional tone suggests this is a celebration of the family dynamic. This print offers a glimpse into the social and cultural values of the time, where gender roles were clearly defined and women's work was often undervalued. It reflects the emotional and personal lives of individuals within the context of broader societal expectations, subtly revealing the imbalance of labor within the domestic sphere.