Kind verkleed als nar op een stokpaardje 1628

This is a woodcut by Christoffel van Sichem II, titled *Child Dressed as a Jester on a Hobbyhorse*. Created in the seventeenth century, the artwork provides a glimpse into the complex social and cultural norms of the time, particularly around childhood and representation. Note how Sichem has depicted a child assuming the role of a jester. The child carries a basket with what appears to be another child, perhaps a commentary on innocence and exploitation. To the right, a figure with wings covers its eyes. It's thought that the image relates to the proverb "Als de blinde een blinde leidt, vallen ze beiden in de gracht" (When the blind lead the blind, they both fall into the pit). It’s difficult not to consider how societal roles, even those playfully adopted by children, were deeply structured. The emotional tension in the image is palpable, inviting us to reflect on the weight of performance and the loss of innocence within a structured society.