Kinderen making zich klaar voor school 1887 - 1907

This black and white photograph by Mary S. Turner captures children preparing for school. Considering its likely production period in the early 20th century, we can see its connection to wider social and cultural changes. The image presents the everyday lives of children in an era undergoing significant transformations. It was a time of growing emphasis on education and the changing roles of children in society. By studying the image, we get to understand the visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations of its time. To fully understand Turner’s image, one might consider the institutional history of photography. Was it exhibited in galleries, photography clubs, or published in magazines? Understanding the social and institutional context helps us interpret the image's meaning. It's through such historical research that we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich layers of meaning embedded within it.