Wil naarstigheid en deugd, uit deze plaatjes trekken, / Dan zal u 't speelvermaak tot levensvreugd verstrekken 1828 - 1853

Curator: Let’s consider this engraving, “Wil naarstigheid en deugd, uit deze plaatjes trekken, / Dan zal u 't speelvermaak tot levensvreugd verstrekken” by Johannis Waleson, dating from 1828-1853. It's a print featuring a series of vignettes. Editor: It reminds me of a comic strip, but one with very traditional scenes. Each panel seems to illustrate a moral lesson. What overarching themes do you see at play here? Curator: I see a direct connection between the illustration of moral values and the societal function of children's "speelvermaak," or playful amusement. Consider how children's literature and illustrations of this time were often used as tools for social conditioning. Do you notice anything in the imagery that reinforces particular class structures? Editor: Now that you mention it, the clothing and domestic settings definitely seem to depict a middle-class or even upper-class environment. Everyone seems very well-behaved and neatly dressed. Curator: Exactly! And what kind of message do you think it sends to its young audience about what behavior is desirable, or rewarded? In this sense, are children always free to playfully learn from everything, or is it restricted in any way? Editor: I suppose the message is to embrace diligence and virtue, and find joy within those parameters. The title tells you so! It feels like the art is reinforcing specific social expectations, rather than offering truly open possibilities for pleasure. Curator: Precisely. And thinking about contemporary contexts, where do we see similar methods of cultural control or societal expectations reflected in our art today? Editor: That's a powerful thought. I will definitely be looking at children's books differently from now on. Curator: As will I. The subtle social engineering happening even within such a quaint-looking piece is something that has impacted, and will continue to impact, identity.