Man met ezel 1630 - 1680

Here we have an etching of a man with a donkey, created by an anonymous artist. The donkey, burdened with a saddle, stands quietly while its master rests. This image is ripe with symbols of labor, patience, and the bond between humans and animals. The motif of the donkey, often associated with humility and endurance, can be traced back through centuries of art. In religious contexts, we recall Christ's entry into Jerusalem upon a donkey, a symbol of peace and unassuming authority. Yet, the donkey has also been portrayed as stubborn or foolish, a beast of burden carrying the weight of the world. Observe the man's repose. His relaxed posture suggests a moment of respite. This simple scene becomes a tableau of daily life, inviting viewers to reflect on the cyclical nature of work and rest, a theme that resonates across cultures and through time.