Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella with Surprise Pictures 1870 - 1880

This lithograph, of unknown date, was made by Dean & Son, a firm active between 1830 and 1950. It depicts scenes from both Little Red Riding Hood and Cinderella. The tales are combined to create a ‘surprise picture.’ This print is particularly interesting when we consider the firm that produced it. Dean & Son were prolific publishers of children’s books, popular stories, and novelty items. The firm played a key role in the distribution of popular culture. Consider the combination of two well-known stories: this print catered to the public's taste, while also shaping it. The ways these characters are depicted—their costumes, poses, and expressions—offer a glimpse into the values and expectations of the time. To fully understand this print, we need to examine the history of children's literature, popular print culture, and the role of firms like Dean & Son in shaping social norms. It's a fascinating case study in the intersection of art, commerce, and cultural values.