Ziet Jan de Wasscher, of Jan Hen, altoos mispreezen, / Daar hy Griet Helleveeg de haan van 't huis laat weezen. / Ziet van hun trouwen af, al hun verkeerd bedryf. / Geen vryer volg'dien man, geen vryster volg' dat wyf 1715 - 1813

This print by A. Robyn was made in Amsterdam, though undated, likely dates to the 18th century. It is an etching, a medium that allowed for the relatively quick and cheap reproduction of images, so they could be widely distributed. This artwork is not simply a depiction of domestic life, but a commentary on gender roles within the Dutch family. The scenes depict the unfortunate consequences when Jan, the husband, is "henpecked" by Griet, his domineering wife. Each little vignette shows a different aspect of Jan's mistreatment and failed attempts to challenge Griet for control of their household. Such prints provide valuable insights into the social anxieties of the time. The scenes are full of cultural codes and references that would have been immediately recognizable to contemporary viewers. By studying such imagery, alongside other sources like household accounts, legal documents, and conduct books, we can gain a deeper understanding of the power dynamics that shaped early modern Dutch society.