Gy, kindren! die het spel bemind, / Leef vrolyk, lustig, welgezind; / Wil altijd zaam uw Vreugde deelen, / Maar nimmer met elkaar krakeelen 1835 - 1837

This print, made by W. Thompson, presents a series of small scenes accompanied by didactic verses. These images, neatly arranged, offer a window into the culture of childhood and moral education of the time in which it was made, likely in the Netherlands. The work creates meaning through the depiction of children at play, emphasizing themes of cooperation and harmless fun. Considering the institutional backdrop, we might ask, was this print intended for educational purposes, perhaps as a visual aid in schools or for moral instruction at home? The verses underscore the importance of shared joy and discourage quarreling, values that reflect the social ideals of the time. Historians delve into such imagery to understand the social conditions that shaped artistic production. By examining similar works and researching educational practices, we can gain a richer appreciation for the contingent nature of art, recognizing how it reflects and reinforces societal norms.