Leer uit Klein Duimpjes wedervaren. / Dat men door list wel slagen kan; (...) 1850 - 1870

Curator: Welcome. Before us hangs a rather fascinating print, dating from roughly 1850 to 1870. Its full title, in Dutch, is “Leer uit Klein Duimpjes wedervaren. / Dat men door list wel slagen kan; (...)" which roughly translates to "Learn from Little Thumb's Adventures. / That one can succeed through cunning (...)." The artist credited is P.C.L. van Staden Czn., and the medium is etching. Editor: Well, that's a mouthful. My first impression is… story time! It reminds me of those old-fashioned comic strips, all arranged in neat little boxes. A bit faded and quaint, like a forgotten children’s book found in an attic. Curator: That's a keen observation. Indeed, this piece utilizes narrative art principles, similar to genre paintings of the Dutch Golden Age. It's essentially a visual comic, telling a story panel by panel, much like Little Thumb, or Tom Thumb as some know him. Editor: I love how each panel is its own little stage. There's a naïve charm to the drawings that completely disarms me. It's telling a dark fairy tale. Curator: Absolutely, the social context is intriguing. These kinds of prints were often made to circulate moral lessons, imparting wisdom to children and the broader public through easily accessible imagery, playing on the familiarity and popularity of folktales. Editor: It’s incredible to think about how many hands this little sheet may have passed through. Did the viewers think that this comic was frightening? Educational? Amusing? Maybe all three at once! I feel like that question of a children's perception still hangs over the work today, nearly 200 years later. Curator: A question for the ages, I suppose. What's your takeaway? Editor: That even small, fragile things can hold immense stories and reflections of our history. Plus, that trickery and a good scheme are often the seeds of revolution. How about you? Curator: I'm struck by the enduring power of art to shape perceptions and morals. And also to remind us that sometimes, cunning trumps strength. Thank you.