Jan gaat naar school, om wat te leeren [(...)] 1861 - 1929

Albertus Willem Sijthoff created this print, "Jan gaat naar school, om wat te leeren," using etching, sometime in the 19th century. Consider this work as a window into the 19th-century Dutch childhood, reflecting the era’s values and societal structures through its depiction of children's activities and moral lessons. The print presents a series of vignettes, each offering a glimpse into the daily lives of children, from going to school to engaging in domestic chores. Gender roles are subtly reinforced, with boys depicted in educational pursuits and girls seemingly confined to household tasks. The inclusion of moralizing verses, in a tone that seeks to teach children about diligence, obedience, and the importance of their roles within the family and society, reveals the era's didactic approach to raising children. These visual narratives underscore the cultural norms and expectations placed upon children during this time, inviting viewers to reflect on how childhood has been historically shaped by societal forces.