Ziet in deze prent de vrolijkheid, / Van Saartje Jans de keukenmeid 1828 - 1853

This print titled "Ziet in deze prent de vrolijkheid, Van Saartje Jans de keukenmeid" (See in this print the cheerfulness of Saartje Jans, the kitchen maid) was created by Broese & Comp. This work gives us insight into the life of Saartje Jans and perhaps the lives of many women in her role. The composition of the print, with its serial boxes depicting her daily life, is reminiscent of a comic strip. Each square is a tableau of her domestic work, revealing an intimate narrative of her life as a servant. These scenes, while seemingly simple, are imbued with societal expectations for women during this time, particularly those from the working class. It begs the question: where is her joy? Is it found in her work, or is it derived from something else? This piece captures a glimpse into the everyday existence of a woman whose story might have otherwise gone unrecorded. Through Saartje, we confront the untold stories of countless women whose labor and lives were often unseen.