Divertissemens de l'enface / Verlusting der jeugd 1833 - 1856

This print, titled "Divertissemens de l'enface / Verlusting der jeugd", was produced by Glenisson & Van Genechten using what appears to be etching, and then carefully hand-colored. The materiality of this print speaks to an era grappling with industrialization. The printmaking process itself, with the need for a press, represents an early form of mechanical reproduction, allowing images to be disseminated more widely than ever before. The careful hand-coloring suggests that while the printing could be mechanized, the human touch was still valued, adding another layer of craft to this artwork. The scenes depicted also give us a window into the world of children, and perhaps more specifically upper-class children. From games like swinging on a tree swing, or playing with a doll, the artist has captured a glimpse into a privileged world. Ultimately, this print provides a fascinating example of how traditional craft and early industrial production could coexist, enriching our understanding of the cultural values of the period.