Wie licht wil hebben langs de wand [(...)] 1861 - 1929

This is a lithograph by Albertus Willem Sijthoff, part of a series of Dutch children’s prints, though undated, its style places it in the late 19th century. These prints were more than just decorative; they were tools for moral and intellectual development, reflecting the values of the era. Each image is paired with a short verse that conveys simple moral lessons. These verses offer a window into the period’s didactic approach to raising children, emphasizing virtues like diligence, obedience, and thrift. These prints also reflect the social hierarchies of the time. Consider the image of the candle: "Het wezen vindt men hier en schaars" implying a lesson in appreciating the simple things and avoiding extravagance, sentiments that would have resonated strongly with the middle class. The text also hints at the era's emphasis on industry and moral uprightness. These prints, with their blend of visual and textual elements, offer a glimpse into the intimate world of childhood and the broader societal values that shaped it. They remind us of how art can serve as both a reflection and a shaper of cultural norms.