Bijbelsche kinderprenten 1869 - 1908

This print of biblical scenes was made by Adolphe François Pannemaker, sometime in the 19th century, probably for distribution as a Christian educational tool. Looking at this print, we can consider the role of religious imagery in 19th-century Dutch society. As printed images became more accessible, they were increasingly used to spread religious and moral teachings, especially among children. Here, Pannemaker chose scenes that would both edify and horrify. Consider the cultural context: the Netherlands was a deeply religious country, with strong Protestant traditions and a commitment to raising children in the Christian faith. Prints like these were part of that broader cultural project and were distributed by religious institutions. The Rijksmuseum database and other period archives can help us understand the audience that prints such as these were reaching.