Spelende kinderen 1768 - 1796

Pieter de Mare created this etching, "Spelende Kinderen," which translates to "Playing Children," in the late 18th century in the Netherlands. It offers a window into the lives of ordinary people, particularly children, during a time of significant social and political change. The image depicts three children engrossed in their play, seemingly oblivious to the world around them. De Mare's choice to focus on such a seemingly mundane scene suggests an interest in capturing the everyday experiences of the Dutch populace. Notice the clothing of the children, which is indicative of the lower social class. During this period, the Netherlands was undergoing a period of political upheaval, with the rise of Enlightenment ideals challenging the established order. Works such as this offer historians insight into the social realities of the time and how artists like de Mare engaged with these issues through their work. By studying archival documents, period newspapers, and other historical sources, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and institutional context in which this print was created.