Vrouw met drie kinderen op bezoek bij hun grootvader 1788

Edward Dayes created this mezzotint, entitled 'A Visit to the Grandfather' in England some time around the turn of the 18th century. It depicts a domestic scene, seemingly portraying the rituals of family life and social hierarchy. Images of the family took on new cultural importance during this time. They reflected the values of a rising middle class and evolving notions of childhood and domesticity. The grandfather's welcoming gesture and the children's varied reactions create a sentimental narrative. The mother’s elegant attire and the well-appointed interior speaks to the family’s economic status. This burgeoning consumer culture helped to define social roles. To fully understand this image, we can look at etiquette manuals and conduct books of the time. These resources shed light on the expected behaviors and social dynamics within families. The history of art institutions is also relevant, as the work makes a claim on the public role of art and the politics of imagery.