The Little Philosopher 1774 - 1789

"The Little Philosopher" is an etching by Jean-Pierre Norblin de la Gourdaine, created between 1774 and 1789. The artwork features a young boy, sitting in a contemplative pose with his head resting in his hand, a common motif in depictions of philosophers. This etching, however, adds an unusual element: a skull resting next to a quill and inkwell. This juxtaposition of youthful innocence and the reminder of mortality imbues the work with a sense of melancholy and invites reflection on the fleeting nature of life. This small print is a powerful example of Norblin's mastery of the etching technique and his ability to create an image that is both intriguing and thought-provoking.