De hervormde school / L'école réformée 1866 - 1902

Franciscus Antonius Beersmans created this print, titled 'The Reformed School', sometime in the late 19th century. Through a series of vignettes, Beersmans explores the social dynamics of the classroom. Made in a time of evolving educational philosophies, the image may reflect contemporary debates about pedagogy and discipline in Dutch schools. We see teachers interacting with students in a variety of scenarios, some playful, some more stern, which encourages reflection on power dynamics inherent in educational settings. The artist hints at the social roles children were expected to adopt. By examining historical records, such as school archives, pedagogical treatises, and period literature, we might better understand the values and assumptions underlying the education system of the time, and what role art played in shaping those values. Through careful research, we reveal the complex interplay between art, education, and social norms.