Weeshuis te Monnickendam 1849 - 1895

Willem Koekkoek made this sketch of the Weeshuis, or orphanage, in Monnickendam using graphite on paper. Koekkoek belonged to a family of artists known for their romanticized depictions of Dutch life. His architectural drawings, like this one, offer a glimpse into the physical spaces that shaped the lives of vulnerable children. During the 19th century, orphanages weren't just places of refuge, they were institutions deeply embedded in the social fabric of Dutch society. Gender and class often determined the kind of care and education one received. While these institutions aimed to provide structure and opportunity, they also carried the weight of social control and the stigma of abandonment. The sketch itself, with its delicate lines and quiet composition, invites reflection on the stories of those who lived within these walls. It prompts us to consider the complex interplay between care, control, and the lived experiences of children growing up in institutional settings.