Kinderen met plaatjesboeken c. 1900

This is a print called 'Kinderen met plaatjesboeken' or 'Children with picture books' that was made anonymously in 1896. Its ideas connect to the commercialization of childhood, the rise of literacy, and the production of children’s books in the late 19th century. The image creates meaning through its depiction of children happily engaged with books. The cultural reference to children's literature is evident and its historical association with the late 19th century links to the rise of mass culture. This print, made in France, reflects the social and economic structures of its time. The rise of the middle class created a market for consumer goods such as books. The print promotes literacy and education, as children are seen engaging with books in a positive manner. The historian's role is to research the social context of the artwork, exploring the history of children's literature, the rise of mass culture, and the role of education in late 19th century France.