Onze huisvrienden 1878

"Onze Huisvrienden", meaning "Our House Friends", is a wood engraving by the artists De Ruyter & Meijer, dating back to 1878. The piece depicts a family of cats and dogs, with their respective litters of kittens and puppies, in a charming and sentimental style. The engraving is divided into sections, each showcasing a different animal family, highlighting the close bond between humans and their furry companions. The meticulous detail of the engraving, particularly in the animals' expressions, creates a sense of warmth and affection. This piece exemplifies a popular genre of Victorian art that focused on the domestic sphere and the companionship of animals.