Het dierenrijk, is lieve jeugd, / Hier afgebeeld tot uwe vreugd, / Gij kunt gerust met hen verkeeren, / De wreedste zelfs zal u niet deeren 1848 - 1881

This print, by Lutkie & Cranenburg, presents an encyclopedic array of animals, rendered in simple lines on paper. It's a work of graphic reproduction, likely made with an etching or engraving technique, allowing for multiple identical impressions. The linear style emphasizes clarity and accessibility. The animals are neatly arranged in a grid, reflecting a desire for order and control over the natural world. The paper support is humble, emphasizing its function as a learning aid rather than a precious artwork. The print’s title, in translation, "The animal kingdom, is dear youth, here depicted for your joy," suggests it was designed for educational purposes, perhaps to instill a sense of wonder and understanding of the world. Consider the labor involved in creating the original plate, which would have been made using a burin to cut into a metal plate, and the multiple printed editions. This work reflects the rise of print culture and mass communication, a development tied to wider social shifts in labor, education, and consumption. The print embodies an accessible vision, inviting viewers to engage with nature.