Laet lieve kinderen, laet de moordlust en bedryve: / Van dezen grooten schurk, in uw geheugen blijven (...) 1866 - 1902

This undated print, "Laet lieve kinderen, laet de moordlust en bedryve," was created by Franciscus Antonius Beersmans. Its composition arranges twenty small narrative scenes in a grid, unified by a muted palette of primarily greens, reds, and yellows, set against a pale background. Each scene functions as a self-contained unit, employing simple lines and flat color to depict various episodes of violence and mischief. The scenes are structured to be read sequentially, much like frames in a comic strip, yet their arrangement challenges any singular interpretation, inviting viewers to construct their own narratives. The combination of playful imagery and the stark realities of its themes destabilizes conventional notions of childhood innocence. The grid format, with its inherent modularity, further emphasizes the fragmentary and multifaceted nature of storytelling itself, reflecting a broader cultural interest in disrupting traditional forms of representation. Ultimately, the print's enduring appeal lies in its ability to provoke ongoing reflection on narrative and representation.