Ziet kinderen! wat nu is geschied, / Van de Wasscher met zijn Griet [(...)] 1800 - 1833

Philippus Jacobus Brepols created this print with etching around the turn of the nineteenth century in the Netherlands. It features a series of vignettes portraying the everyday life of a couple named Jan and Griet. These images offer a glimpse into the social dynamics and gender roles of the time. The detailed depiction of domestic chores, work, and leisure activities provides a rich source of information about the cultural norms and values that were prevalent in Dutch society. The print also reflects institutional histories, hinting at the increasing importance of the family unit and the home as a site of social and economic activity. Were Jan and Griet progressive or conservative for their time? What values are being promoted here? What is the relationship between man and woman in the household? To fully understand the cultural significance of this artwork, it’s crucial to consider its historical context, by consulting period sources such as domestic manuals and other illustrated prints. Art is always contingent on social and institutional context.