Slangenspel, ca, 1625 1620s

This is Slangenspel, or Snakes and Ladders, printed in Amsterdam around 1625. This early board game, whose title translates to “royal pastime of Cupid,” offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural values of the Dutch Golden Age. The game’s design, with its winding path from innocence to experience, reflects the era's preoccupation with morality and the consequences of one's actions. The numbered spaces, adorned with allegorical images, chart the players' journey through love and life, with snakes symbolizing temptation and ladders representing virtuous choices. The central image of Cupid, the Roman god of love, suggests a playful yet cautionary exploration of romantic relationships. Such games played a role in shaping societal norms around courtship and marriage. The visual narratives underscore the anxieties and ideals surrounding love, family, and social status during this transformative period in Dutch history. Games like these not only entertained but also subtly reinforced the prevailing values of the time.