Spreekwoorden 1843

This print from 1843, titled "Spreekwoorden," by Jan Schuitemaker, presents a series of proverbs related to ships and maritime life. Created in the Netherlands, the work reflects the nation’s deep connection to the sea and its reliance on maritime trade. The visual codes here, such as the images of ships in various states of peril and safety, speak directly to the socio-economic realities of the time. In the 19th century, the Dutch economy still benefited from its maritime history, but dangers and uncertainties were constant. The proverbs, illustrated with these scenes, offer moral lessons and practical wisdom, vital for a society so intertwined with the risks of seafaring. This magazine was made for the youth and contains multiple images with proverbs, hinting to the importance of teaching young people about these dangers. To fully appreciate this work, we can explore archives of maritime records, trade statistics, and educational materials from the era. Such research illuminates the social conditions that shaped artistic production and reception, revealing how art served both to reflect and reinforce cultural values.